Robert Benson, 1st Baron Bingley facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Lord Bingley
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![]() Portrait attributed to Godfrey Kneller
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Chancellor of the Exchequer | |
In office 1711–1713 |
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Preceded by | The Earl of Oxford and Earl Mortimer |
Succeeded by | Sir William Wyndham |
Personal details | |
Born | c 1676 |
Died | 9 April 1731 |
Nationality | English |
Alma mater | Christ's College, Cambridge |
Occupation | politician |
Robert Benson, the 1st Baron Bingley, was an important English politician. He was born around 1676 and passed away on April 9, 1731. He was a member of the Tory political party. Benson served in the English and British House of Commons from 1702 until 1713. After that, he became a Baron and joined the House of Lords. One of his most important jobs was being the Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1711 to 1713.
Contents
Robert Benson's Life
Early Years and Education
Robert Benson was born in a town called Wakefield. His father was also named Robert Benson. Young Robert went to school in London. Later, he studied at Christ's College, Cambridge, which is a famous university.
A Career in Politics
Benson started his political career in the city of York. He became an alderman, which is like a city council member. In 1707, he was chosen to be the Lord Mayor of York.
He also served as a Member of Parliament (MP). This meant he represented people in the government. From 1702 to 1705, he was an MP for Thetford. Then, from 1705 to 1713, he represented York.
In 1711, Robert Benson joined the Privy Council. This was a group of advisors to the King or Queen. At the same time, he became the Chancellor of the Exchequer. This role is like being the main finance minister for the country. He held this job until 1713.
He was also a director for the South Sea Company for a few years. In 1713, he was given the title of Baron Bingley. This meant he became a peer and could sit in the House of Lords. After this, he became the British ambassador to Spain. An ambassador represents their country in another nation.
Building Bramham Park
Robert Benson was the person who started building Bramham Park. This is a large, beautiful country house located near Wetherby. It is still a famous landmark today.
When Robert Benson passed away in 1731, he was buried in Westminster Abbey. This is a very important church in London where many famous people are buried. He had a son who passed away before him, and two daughters. His title, Baron Bingley, ended when he died. However, it was later given to his son-in-law. What was left of his property, including Bramham Park, went to his daughter Harriet. She was married to George Fox.