James Hamilton, 8th Earl of Abercorn facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Earl of Abercorn
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| Born | 22 October 1712 |
| Died | 9 October 1789 (aged 76) Boroughbridge, England
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| Alma mater | Christ Church, Oxford |
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James Hamilton, 8th Earl of Abercorn (born October 22, 1712 – died October 9, 1789) was an important person in British and Irish history. He was known as a "peer," which means he held a special title and had a role in the government.
James Hamilton inherited many large land estates in Ireland. He also bought back some of his family's old lands in Scotland. He was known for building grand houses and helping to develop new towns.
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Early Life and Family
James Hamilton was born in London, England, on October 22, 1712. His parents were James Hamilton, 7th Earl of Abercorn and Anne Plumer.
He went to Christ Church, Oxford, a famous university. In 1736, he became a member of the Irish House of Lords. This was a special group of important people who helped make laws in Ireland.
In 1744, James Hamilton became the Earl of Abercorn after his father passed away. This meant he inherited his father's title and responsibilities.
Rebuilding Family Lands
When James Hamilton became Earl, much of his family's land in Scotland had been sold. He worked hard to buy these lands back.
In 1745, he bought the area of Duddingston in Edinburgh. Later, in 1764, he bought the lordship of Paisley. This was a very important area for his family's history.
Building New Homes
James Hamilton loved to build. In 1760, he hired a famous architect named Sir William Chambers. Chambers designed the beautiful Duddingston House for him.
He also had a home in Witham, Essex, England. From 1779 to 1781, he built a large new house called Baronscourt in Ireland. His main home was Duddingston House near Edinburgh.
Developing Paisley
James Hamilton also helped develop the town of Paisley. In 1779, he started building a new part of the town. This new area was across the River Cart from the older part of Paisley.
Role in Politics
James Hamilton was a member of the Privy Council of Ireland starting in 1756. This council advised the King on important matters in Ireland.
From 1761 to 1787, he was a "representative peer" for Scotland. This meant he was chosen to represent Scotland's interests in the British Parliament.
He often disagreed with new laws. For example, he was against ending the Stamp Act in 1766. This act had put a tax on paper goods in the American colonies. He also opposed a bill about the East India Company in 1783.
Later Life and Legacy
In 1786, James Hamilton was given a new title, Viscount Hamilton. This was a special honor.
He passed away on October 9, 1789, while traveling in Boroughbridge, England. He was buried at Paisley Abbey in Scotland. His titles and lands were passed on to his nephew, John James.
James Hamilton is remembered for rebuilding his family's land holdings and for his contributions to building and developing new areas.
Images for kids
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A painting of James Hamilton, 8th Earl of Abercorn.
