George Champion (politician) facts for kids

Sir George Champion (born 1713, died 1754) was an important English merchant and politician. He lived in London and Baulking, which is now in Oxfordshire. He was a Member of Parliament (MP) from 1734 to 1741. He was also known for not being chosen as the Lord Mayor of London, even though many expected him to be.

George Champion's Early Life

George Champion was born in London and baptised on November 29, 1713. His family, the Champions, originally came from Baulking, near Uffington. His parents were George Champion and Catherine Bould. His cousin, Alexander Champion, was also a merchant in London. George Champion married Susanna Andrews, whose father was Sir Jonathan Andrews. Sadly, Susanna passed away in 1738.

Champion's Political and Business Career

George Champion became a successful merchant in London. He was involved in city government from a young age. From 1726 to 1729, he served as a Common Councillor for Langbourn ward. In 1729, he became a freeman of the Worshipful Company of Coopers, which was a guild for barrel makers. Later that year, he was chosen as an alderman for Bridge ward.

Champion was very active in the city's politics. He helped lead efforts to protest against certain laws, like those about the Charitable Corporation and a new tax called the excise bill. He was so good at this that people called him 'the darling of the city.'

In 1734, he was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Aylesbury. This meant he represented the people of Aylesbury in the British House of Commons. He was knighted in 1737, which gave him the title "Sir." He also served as Sheriff of London from 1737 to 1738.

In Parliament, Sir George Champion voted for something called the Spanish convention. This was a treaty with Spain. Some people in the City of London were not happy about this vote. There was also a time when the government stopped legal action against him for unpaid taxes. Some thought this might have been a way to get his vote for the convention.

It was usually expected that the most senior alderman would become the Lord Mayor of London. Sir George Champion was the most senior, and many thought it was his turn. To become Lord Mayor, people often joined one of the oldest and most respected guilds. So, in 1739, he joined the Worshipful Company of Haberdashers (merchants who sold small items). However, when he ran for Lord Mayor, he lost by a large number of votes. Even so, he became the Master of the Haberdashers' Company from 1740 to 1741. In Parliament, he continued to vote with the government on important issues. He did not run for re-election in 1741.

Later Life and Legacy

In 1744, Sir George Champion married for a second time to a widow named Mrs. Jones. In 1745, he became a colonel in the White Regiment of the City of London trained bands, which were like a local militia. In 1750, he became the President of the Honourable Artillery Company, a very old military organization.

Sir George Champion passed away on July 18, 1754. He had a daughter from his first marriage. A son from his second marriage died before him.