Robert Clements, 1st Earl of Leitrim facts for kids
Robert Clements, 1st Earl of Leitrim (born 25 November 1732 – died 27 July 1804) was an important Irish nobleman and politician. He played a big role in Irish government during his lifetime.
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Early Life and Family
Robert Clements was born in 1732. His father was Nathaniel Clements, who was also a Member of Parliament (MP) for Cavan Borough. Nathaniel Clements held important financial jobs, like Deputy Vice Treasurer for Ireland.
In 1759, Robert Clements became the High Sheriff of Leitrim. This was an important local role, like a chief law enforcement officer for the county. The year before, he was put in charge of customs for the port of Dublin. This meant he helped manage taxes on goods coming into and out of the city.
Political Career
Robert Clements became a Member of Parliament (MP) in the Irish House of Commons. This was like being a member of the Irish parliament.
Serving in Parliament
In 1765, he was first elected as an MP for County Donegal. He later changed his seat to represent Carrick in 1768. He returned to represent County Donegal again in 1776.
From 1772 to 1773, he worked as a Commissioner of the Revenue. This job involved overseeing the collection of taxes for the government.
Governor of Counties
Robert Clements was also appointed as a governor for two important counties in Ireland. He became governor of County Leitrim in 1777 and then County Donegal in 1781. These roles gave him more influence in these areas.
Rise to Nobility
Robert Clements was given several special titles during his life, which showed his growing importance.
Baron, Viscount, and Earl
In 1783, he was given the title of Baron Leitrim. This made him a nobleman. Later, in 1794, he became Viscount Leitrim. The highest title he received was Earl of Leitrim in 1795. These titles were given to him by the King.
Later Achievements
In 1801, after Ireland joined with Great Britain, he was chosen as one of the first Irish representative peers. This meant he could represent Ireland in the British House of Lords. The next year, he joined the Irish Privy Council, a group of important advisors to the King.
Personal Life
In 1765, Robert Clements married Lady Elizabeth Skeffington. She was the oldest daughter of Clotworthy Skeffington, 1st Earl of Massereene, another important nobleman.
Robert Clements passed away in London in 1804, when he was 71 years old. He was buried in Dublin.
