Gavin Hamilton, 2nd Baron Hamilton of Dalzell facts for kids
Gavin George Hamilton, the 2nd Baron Hamilton of Dalzell, was an important Scottish politician and soldier. He was born on June 29, 1872, and passed away on June 23, 1952, at the age of 79. He was a member of the Liberal Party and held several significant roles throughout his life, serving both in the military and in government.
Early Life and Military Service
Gavin George Hamilton was the oldest surviving son of John Hamilton, who was the 1st Baron Hamilton of Dalzell. He attended Eton College, a famous school, before starting his career in the military.
He joined the Scots Guards as a second lieutenant in 1892. Later, he became a lieutenant and then a captain in the army reserve. In 1900, he volunteered to serve in the Second Boer War in South Africa. During this time, he was a special assistant, known as a Lord-in-waiting, to Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught.
Political Career and Royal Service
In 1900, Gavin George Hamilton became the 2nd Baron Hamilton of Dalzell after his father passed away. This meant he gained a seat in the House of Lords, which is part of the British Parliament. He joined the Liberal Party benches there.
From 1905 to 1911, he served as a Lord-in-waiting for the government. This role meant he helped manage government business in the House of Lords. He worked under two Prime Ministers, Sir Henry Campbell-Bannerman and later H. H. Asquith. He also served as a Lord-in-waiting to King Edward VIII and King George V.
Honors and Later Life
Lord Hamilton of Dalzell received many special honors during his life. In 1901, he was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, a region in Scotland. Later, from 1938 to 1952, he became the Lord-Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, which is the King's official representative in the area.
In 1909, he was made a Knight of the Thistle, which is a very high honor in Scotland. He also received awards from other countries, including Russia, Italy, Norway, and France.
In 1912, Lord Hamilton of Dalzell married Sybil Mary Marshall. She passed away in 1933. Lord Hamilton lived for another nineteen years and died in June 1952. His nephew, John, then became the 3rd Baron Hamilton of Dalzell.