Charles Sackville, 2nd Duke of Dorset facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Duke of Dorset
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| Born | 6 February 1711 England
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| Died | 5 January 1769 (aged 57) London, England
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| Parent(s) | Lionel Sackville, 1st Duke of Dorset Elizabeth Colyear |
Charles Sackville, the 2nd Duke of Dorset, was an important British politician. He was born on February 6, 1711, and passed away on January 5, 1769. Before becoming a Duke, he was known as Lord Buckhurst and later the Earl of Middlesex. He served in the House of Commons, which is like a part of the British Parliament, for many years. Besides politics, he loved opera and was also a cricketer.
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Early Life of Charles Sackville
Charles Sackville was the oldest son of Lionel Sackville, who became the 1st Duke of Dorset. His mother was Elizabeth Colyear. Charles went to Westminster School and later studied at Christ Church, Oxford university.
After university, he went on a "grand tour" of Italy from 1731 to 1733. This was a common trip for young, wealthy men to learn about European culture. While in Florence, Italy, he helped start the very first Freemasonic lodge in Italy. A lodge is a local meeting place for a group called Freemasons.
Charles Sackville's Political Career
Charles Sackville had different political ideas than his father. He became friends with Frederick, Prince of Wales, who was the son of the King.
In 1734, Charles was elected as a member of parliament for a place called East Grinstead. This meant he represented that area in the House of Commons. He also became the Captain of Walmer Castle, a historic fortress. He continued to serve as a Member of Parliament for East Grinstead until 1741.
Important Roles He Held
Later, in 1742, he was elected to represent Sussex. He also served as a Lord of the Treasury from 1743 to 1747. This role involved managing government money. In 1745, he became a deputy lieutenant for Sussex.
In 1747, he was appointed Master of the Horse to the Prince of Wales. This was an important position in the royal household. Charles married Grace Boyle in 1744, but they did not have any children.
He returned to the House of Commons in 1761, again representing East Grinstead. In 1765, he became the Duke of Dorset after his father passed away. He also became the Lord Lieutenant of Kent, a representative of the King in that county. In 1766, he joined the Privy Council, a group of advisors to the King.
Charles Sackville passed away in London in 1769. His nephew, John Sackville, became the next Duke.
His Love for Opera
After another trip to Europe in 1737 and 1738, Charles Sackville returned to England. He loved opera and decided to put on a show called Angelico e Medoro in 1739. The music was by Giovanni Battista Pescetti.
He wanted to bring back full-scale Italian opera to London. He even partnered with other noblemen to help fund opera seasons at the King's Theatre.
Playing Cricket
Like other members of his family, Charles Sackville was interested in cricket. He played for the Kent team in 1734. This game against Sussex is one of the earliest known matches played at Sevenoaks Vine. His brother, Lord John Sackville, also played for Kent in that game, which Kent won.
