George Waldegrave, 4th Earl Waldegrave facts for kids
George Waldegrave, 4th Earl Waldegrave (born 23 November 1751 – died 22 October 1789) was a British Army officer and a politician in Great Britain. He was a member of the British Parliament from 1774 to 1780. He was also a Privy Councillor, meaning he was one of the King's special advisors.
Who Was George Waldegrave?
George Waldegrave was an important figure in 18th-century Britain. He held a noble title, Earl Waldegrave, and served his country in both the military and in government. His life shows how people from noble families often played many roles in society.
Early Life and Military Career
George Waldegrave was the oldest son of the 3rd Earl of Waldegrave. He went to school at Eton College, a famous school in England.
In 1768, he joined the army, becoming an officer in the 3rd Foot Guards. He quickly moved up in rank. In 1773, he bought the rank of Lieutenant. This was a common way for officers to get promoted back then.
He continued his military career:
- In 1778, he moved to the Coldstream Guards as a Captain-Lieutenant.
- In 1779, he became a Lieutenant-Colonel of the new 87th Regiment of Foot. He held this position until 1783.
- In 1788, he was briefly made Colonel of the 63rd Regiment of Foot.
- In 1789, he transferred to be Colonel of the 14th Regiment of Foot. He held this role for a short time before he passed away later that year.
Family and Legacy
George Waldegrave became the 4th Earl Waldegrave in 1784, after his father died.
On 5 May 1782, he married his first cousin, Lady Elizabeth Waldegrave. They had six children together:
- Lady Maria Wilhelmina Waldegrave (1783 – 1805). She married Nathaniel Micklethwaite and had a daughter named Charlotte.
- George Waldegrave, 5th Earl Waldegrave (1784 – 1794). He became the 5th Earl but sadly died when he was only nine years old.
- Lieutenant-Colonel John Waldegrave, 6th Earl Waldegrave (1785 – 1846). He married Anne King and they had children.
- Lieutenant Edward William Waldegrave (1787 – 1809). He passed away at sea.
- Vice-Admiral William Waldegrave, 8th Earl Waldegrave (1788 – 1859). He married Elizabeth Whitbread first and had children. Later, he married Sarah Whitear.
- Lady Charlotte Waldegrave (1789 – 1790). She was born after her father's death.
