George Courtenay (politician) facts for kids

George Courtenay (1666–1725) was an English landowner and politician. He lived at Ford, Devon. He served in the English and British Parliament as a member of the Tory party between 1702 and 1713.

Early Life and Career

George Courtenay was born in 1666 and was baptized on May 13. He was the fourth son of Sir William Courtenay, 1st Baronet to survive childhood. In 1684, he began studying law at Middle Temple in London.

In November 1688, George Courtenay supported the Prince of Orange (who later became King William III). The next year, in 1689, he became an ensign (a junior officer) in the 1st Foot Guards, a famous army regiment. Also in May 1689, he was given the important job of vice-admiral for Devon and Exeter, which meant he helped manage naval affairs in that area. He kept this role for the rest of his life. In January 1694, he inherited the Ford estate from his mother.

Time in Parliament

George Courtenay became a Member of Parliament (MP) for the first time in 1702. He won a special election for East Looe on February 4. As a Tory, he supported Parliament's decisions regarding government ministers on February 26, 1702. He did not run in the general election later that year.

Representing Totnes

In the 1708 general election, Courtenay was elected as a Tory MP for Totnes. In 1710, he voted against punishing Dr. Henry Sacheverell, a clergyman whose sermons caused political debate.

Representing Newport

In the 1710 general election, George Courtenay tried to win a seat in Ashburton but was not successful. However, he was elected for Newport with the help of Sir Nicholas Morice, 2nd Baronet. He was known as a "worthy patriot" who pointed out problems with the previous government. He was also part of a group called the October Club. In 1711, he got a job in the victualling office, which was responsible for supplying food and drink to the navy.

George Courtenay did not run in the 1713 general election. When King George I came to the throne in 1714, Courtenay lost his job in the victualling office.

Family and Death

George Courtenay never married. He passed away before May 25, 1725. His brothers, Francis Courtenay and Richard Courtenay, were also Members of Parliament.