North ministry facts for kids
Quick facts for kids North ministry |
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| 1770–1782 | |
North by Nathaniel Dance-Holland
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| Date formed | 28 January 1770 |
| Date dissolved | 27 March 1782 |
| People and organisations | |
| Monarch | George III |
| Prime Minister | Lord North |
| Total no. of members | 33 appointments |
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| Status in legislature |
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| Opposition party | Rockingham Whigs |
| History | |
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| Predecessor | Grafton ministry |
| Successor | Second Rockingham ministry |
Frederick North, Lord North was a very important leader in Great Britain. He was chosen by King George III to lead the government from 1770 to 1782. This period is often called the "North Ministry" or "Premiership of Frederick North." During his time as leader, some big events happened. These included a disagreement over the Falklands Crisis of 1770, the Gordon Riots in 1780 (which were large protests), and the start of the American War of Independence.
Lord North's Government Role
Lord North held two very important jobs at the same time. He was the First Lord of the Treasury, which is similar to being the head of the government today. He was also the Chancellor of the Exchequer, meaning he was in charge of the country's money. He held these roles for his entire time as leader, from January 28, 1770, to March 27, 1782.
Key People in the Government
A leader like Lord North doesn't run the country alone. He had a team of other important people, called ministers, who helped him. These ministers were in charge of different parts of the government.
- Lord Chancellor: This person was the head of the legal system. During Lord North's time, Earl Bathurst and later Lord Thurlow held this position.
- Lord President of the Council: This minister helped advise the King. Earl Gower and then Earl Bathurst served in this role.
- Lord Privy Seal: This person was responsible for the King's personal seal, used for important documents. Several people held this job, including the Earl of Halifax and the Duke of Grafton.
- Secretaries of State: These ministers were in charge of foreign affairs and the colonies.
- The Secretary of State for the Southern Department handled relations with countries in Southern Europe and the American colonies.
- The Secretary of State for the Northern Department dealt with countries in Northern Europe.
- A special Secretary of State for the Colonies was created to manage the growing issues with the American colonies. This role was held by people like the Earl of Hillsborough and Lord George Germain.
- First Lord of the Admiralty: This minister was in charge of the Royal Navy, which was very important for Great Britain's power. Sir Edward Hawke and the Earl of Sandwich held this position.
- Lord Lieutenant of Ireland: This person was the King's representative in Ireland. The Viscount Townshend and the Earl Harcourt were among those who served in this role.
These ministers worked together to help Lord North manage the country during a very challenging period, especially with the events leading up to and during the American War of Independence.
