Samuel Sandys, 1st Baron Sandys facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Lord Sandys
|
|
|---|---|
Portrait by Godfrey Kneller
|
|
| Chancellor of the Exchequer | |
| In office 12 February 1742 – 12 December 1743 |
|
| Monarch | George II |
| Prime Minister | The Earl of Wilmington Hon. Henry Pelham |
| Preceded by | Sir Robert Walpole |
| Succeeded by | Hon. Henry Pelham |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 10 August 1695 |
| Died | 21 April 1770 (aged 74) Highgate Hill |
| Nationality | British |
| Political party | Whig |
| Spouse | Letitia Tipping |
| Alma mater | New College, Oxford |
Samuel Sandys, 1st Baron Sandys (born August 10, 1695 – died April 21, 1770) was an important British politician. He was a member of the Whig party, which was one of the main political groups in Britain at the time.
Sandys served in the House of Commons, which is like one of the two main parts of the British Parliament. He represented the area of Worcester for 25 years. Later, he became a "Baron," which is a type of noble title. He also held several high-ranking jobs in the British government, including Chancellor of the Exchequer, which is like the country's main finance minister.
Early Life and Education
Samuel Sandys was born in 1695. His father, Edwin Sandys, was also a Member of Parliament (MP). Samuel came from a family with a history of public service.
He went to New College, Oxford, a famous university, when he was 16 years old. After leaving Oxford, he went on a "Grand Tour" of Europe. This was a common trip for young, wealthy men to learn about other cultures.
Starting in Politics
In 1718, when he was 22, Sandys was chosen to be an MP for Worcester. He was a member of the Whig party. He held this position for 25 years.
At first, Sandys supported the government led by Robert Walpole. Walpole was a very powerful politician, often seen as Britain's first Prime Minister. However, in 1725, Sandys joined a group of politicians who opposed Walpole. This group was led by William Pulteney. Sandys became Pulteney's main helper.
Fighting for Change
Sandys was known for trying to make the government more fair. In 1730, he tried to pass a law called the "Pension Bill." This bill would have stopped MPs from secretly getting money or jobs from the King. He believed this would make politicians more honest. The bill passed in the House of Commons but was rejected by the House of Lords (the other part of Parliament). He tried to pass it many times, but it always failed in the Lords.
He also disagreed with the government's money plans. For example, he opposed taking money from a special fund meant to pay off national debt. He also spoke out against a new tax on tobacco and wine imports. In 1736, he pointed out that the country's debt was growing too much.
In 1741, Sandys even tried to get King George II to fire Robert Walpole. However, this attempt failed.
Becoming Chancellor of the Exchequer
In 1742, Robert Walpole's government finally fell. This was a big moment in British politics. William Pulteney, Sandys's leader, made a deal with the King.
As a result, Samuel Sandys was given the important job of Chancellor of the Exchequer. This role meant he was in charge of the country's money and taxes. He also became a member of a special committee that looked into Walpole's time in office.
Sandys's time as Chancellor was short. The Prime Minister, Lord Wilmington, died in 1743. Henry Pelham then took over as Prime Minister and also became Chancellor of the Exchequer himself.
Later Career and Legacy
After leaving the Chancellor role, Sandys was given a new honor. In December 1743, he became Baron Sandys, which meant he was now a member of the House of Lords. He also held other important government jobs, such as Cofferer of the Household and First Lord of Trade.
Samuel Sandys died on April 21, 1770. He passed away from injuries after his carriage overturned on Highgate Hill.
Family Life
In 1725, Samuel Sandys married Letitia Tipping. They had ten children together, seven sons and three daughters.
Their eldest son, Edwin Sandys, later became the 2nd Baron Sandys after his father's death. The family continued to be involved in politics and public life for generations.
Images for kids
-
Portrait of Samuel Sandys by Godfrey Kneller.
