James Creed facts for kids
Sir James Creed (born around 1695 – died February 7, 1762) was an important English businessman and politician. He lived during a time when Britain was becoming a powerful global trading nation.
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A Life in Business and Politics
Sir James Creed was a successful merchant in London. A merchant is a person who buys and sells goods, often in large amounts, to make money. He was also a director of the Honourable East India Company. This was a very powerful British company that traded goods like tea, spices, and textiles from India and other parts of Asia. Being a director meant he helped make big decisions for this company.
His Business Ventures
Sir James Creed was involved in making a product called white lead. White lead was a common ingredient used in paints and cosmetics during his time. In December 1749, he even got a special patent for his method of making it. A patent is like a special permission from the government that gives someone the only right to make or sell an invention for a certain period. This meant his way of making white lead was unique to him.
In February 1743, Sir James Creed was chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society. The Royal Society is a very old and respected group of scientists and thinkers in the United Kingdom. Being a Fellow means you are recognized for your important contributions to science or knowledge.
Becoming a Politician
In 1754, Sir James Creed became a Member of Parliament (MP) for the area of Canterbury. An MP is a person elected by the public to represent them in the British Parliament, which is where laws are made. He was known as a strong supporter of the Whig party. The Whigs were one of the main political groups in Britain at the time. They often supported more trade and less power for the king.
Sir James Creed was a loyal supporter of the Prime Minister, the Duke of Newcastle. The Prime Minister is the head of the government in the United Kingdom. However, in 1761, Sir James Creed lost his seat in Parliament to two candidates from the Tory party. The Tories were the other main political group, often supporting the king and traditional ways.
His Final Resting Place
Sir James Creed was buried with his wife, Dame Mary Creed, at St Alfege Church, Greenwich. There is a special marble monument there that remembers him.
