Laurence Sulivan facts for kids
Laurence Sulivan (born 1713, died 1786) was an important person in British history. He was an Anglo-Irish politician, which means he had family roots in both England and Ireland and was involved in government. He served as a Member of Parliament, representing different areas like Taunton and Ashburton. He also held a very powerful position as the Chairman of the British East India Company.
Early Life and Career
Laurence Sulivan was born in Ireland. When he was younger, he moved to work for the East India Company. This was a very powerful British company that traded goods like spices, textiles, and tea from India and other parts of Asia. It also had a big influence on politics and government in those regions.
Sulivan worked hard and gained a good amount of money. In 1753, he returned to England. With his earnings, he was able to buy a large estate called Ponsbourne Park in Hertfordshire in 1761.
Leading the East India Company
Laurence Sulivan became a very important leader within the East India Company. He was elected as a Director many times, helping to guide the company's decisions.
He also served as the Deputy Chairman for several years. This role meant he was second-in-command. Even more importantly, he was the Chairman of the company three times. Being Chairman meant he was the top leader, making major decisions for one of the most powerful companies in the world at that time.
Political Life
Besides his work with the East India Company, Sulivan was also a politician. He became a Member of Parliament (MP). An MP is a person elected by the public to represent them in the country's parliament, where laws are made.
He first became an MP for Taunton in 1762. Later, in 1768, he was elected to represent Ashburton. As an MP, he helped shape the laws and policies of Great Britain during the 18th century.
Family and Legacy
Laurence Sulivan married while he was in India and had two sons. His estate, Ponsbourne Park, was passed down to his son Stephen. However, Stephen later sold the property in 1811.
Laurence Sulivan's grandson, also named Laurence Sulivan (1783–1866), also became a notable figure. He was known for helping others (a philanthropist) and was also involved in government as a statesman and Deputy Secretary at War.
