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James Brudenell, 5th Earl of Cardigan facts for kids

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The Earl of Cardigan
5thEarlOfCardigan.jpg
The Earl of Cardigan
Keeper of the Privy Purse
In office
1773–1812
Monarch George III
Preceded by Sir William Breton
Succeeded by John McMahon
Personal details
Born 20 April 1725
London, England
Died 24 February 1811 (1811-02-25) (aged 85)
Grosvenor Square, Mayfair, London
Political party Tory
Spouses (1) Hon. Anne Legge
(died 1786)
(2) Lady Elizabeth Waldegrave
(1758–1823)
Parents George Brudenell, 3rd Earl of Cardigan
Lady Elizabeth Bruce
Alma mater Oriel College, Oxford

James Brudenell, 5th Earl of Cardigan (born April 20, 1725 – died February 24, 1811) was an important British figure. He worked for the royal family and was also a politician. He was known by different titles throughout his life. From 1754 to 1780, he was a member of the House of Commons. This is part of the British Parliament. Later, he became a Lord, which is a higher rank in society.

Early Life and School

James Brudenell was born in London, England. His father was George Brudenell, 3rd Earl of Cardigan. His mother was Lady Elizabeth Bruce. James had three brothers. One of his brothers was George Montagu, 1st Duke of Montagu.

James went to Winchester College for his early education. This is a famous school in Hampshire. After that, he went to Oriel College, Oxford University. He finished his studies there in 1747. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Working for the Country

James Brudenell had a long career in public service. He was a Member of Parliament (MP) for many years. An MP is someone elected to represent people in the House of Commons. He represented different areas, including Shaftesbury, Hastings, Great Bedwyn, and Marlborough.

He also held several important jobs for the royal family.

  • From 1755 to 1760, he was the Deputy Cofferer of the Household. This job involved managing the royal household's money.
  • From 1758 to 1760, he was the Master of Robes for the Prince of Wales. This prince later became King George III. James helped manage the King's clothing and personal items.
  • From 1760 until his death in 1811, he was the Keeper of the Privy Purse. This was a very important role. He managed the King's private money and expenses.

In 1780, James Brudenell was given a special honor. He was made a Lord, with the title Baron Brudenell. This meant he became part of the peerage. Ten years later, in 1790, he inherited another title. He became the Earl of Cardigan. He got this title from his brother, George Montagu.

In 1791, he received another important job. He was made the Constable and Governor of Windsor Castle. This meant he was in charge of the famous Windsor Castle. He held this job until he passed away.

Family Life

Lord Cardigan was married twice. His first wife was Anne Legge. They got married in 1760. Sadly, Anne passed away in 1786.

Later, in 1791, he married his second wife. She was Lady Elizabeth Waldegrave. James was 76 years old at the time, and Elizabeth was 32. Neither of his marriages had any children.

James Brudenell, the 5th Earl of Cardigan, died in February 1811. He was 85 years old. He passed away in London. The title of Baron Brudenell, which was created for him, ended when he died. However, his other titles, like Earl of Cardigan, passed to his nephew, Robert Brudenell, 6th Earl of Cardigan. His second wife, Lady Elizabeth, lived until June 1823. She was 65 when she died.

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