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James Stanley, 10th Earl of Derby facts for kids

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The Earl of Derby
Portrait of The Right Honble. James Earl of Derby (4674603).jpg
Captain of the Yeomen of the Guard
In office
1715–1723
Preceded by The Lord Paget
Succeeded by Lord Stanhope
Personal details
Born 3 July 1664
Died 1 February 1736 (aged 71)
Spouse Mary Morley
Parents Charles Stanley, 8th Earl of Derby
Dorothea Helena Kirkhoven

James Stanley was an important British nobleman, soldier, and politician. He was known as the 10th Earl of Derby. He lived from 1664 to 1736. He held many important jobs during his life, serving both the King and the country.

Early Life and Political Beginnings

James Stanley was born on July 3, 1664. His father was Charles Stanley, 8th Earl of Derby. James was the second son in the family.

Starting in Politics

When he was young, James began his political career. In 1685, he was chosen to be a member of the British House of Commons. This is like being a representative in the government. He represented the area of Clitheroe for a few years. Later, he represented Preston and then Lancashire.

Serving the King

From 1689 to 1702, James Stanley worked closely with King William III. He held a special job called Groom of the Bedchamber. This meant he was a personal attendant to the King.

Military Career and Leadership

James Stanley also had a strong military background. He served as a soldier for many years.

Early Military Service

Before 1689, he served in the Anglo-Dutch Brigade. This was a group of soldiers who fought alongside William III in Holland and Flanders. In 1689, he became a captain and Lieutenant-Colonel. He joined the 1st Foot Guards.

Leading in Ireland

His older brother, the 9th Earl of Derby, was in charge of the Lancashire Militia. This was a local army group. In 1690, James Stanley led a large group of these soldiers in a campaign in Ireland. After this campaign, many of his militiamen chose to join his regular army regiment.

Becoming a Colonel

In 1692, James Stanley took command of his own regiment. This happened after the previous commander was killed in battle. His regiment became known as 'Stanleys'. He remained its colonel until 1705. In 1704, he was promoted to major general.

Important Political Roles

In 1702, James Stanley's older brother passed away. This meant James became the 10th Earl of Derby. This title allowed him to join the House of Lords. The House of Lords is another important part of the British government.

Key Government Positions

He was asked to join the Privy Council in 1706. This is a group of important advisors to the King. He also became the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster. He held this job until 1710. Later, from 1715 to 1723, he was the Captain of the Yeomen of the Guard. This role involved leading the King's personal bodyguards.

Local Leadership

Besides his national roles, he also served as Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire. He held this important local position twice. First from 1702 to 1710, and then again from 1714 until his death in 1736.

Family Life

In February 1705, James Stanley married Mary Morley. She was the daughter of Sir William Morley.

Later Years and Succession

James Stanley passed away on February 1, 1736, at the age of 71. He did not have any children who lived past infancy. His only son, William, died shortly after birth. Because of this, his title of Earl of Derby passed to a distant relative, Edward Stanley, 11th Earl of Derby. His wife, Lady Derby, lived until 1752.

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