Few figures in British politics wielded power for as long, or have had the same impact, as Robert Walpole, the man widely regarded as Britain’s first Prime Minister. Though the title was unofficial during his long career, Walpole’s dominance in government from 1721 to 1742 created the blueprint for the modern premiership. His leadership brought stability to a fragile political landscape, shored up the country’s financial system, and defined many of the systems of parliamentary government.
The Making of a Statesman
Born in 1676 in Houghton, Norfolk, Walpole was the third son of a wealthy family. Originally destined for the Church, his path changed when he inherited his family estate following the deaths of his elder brothers. Educated at Eton and then King’s College, Cambridge, Walpole entered Parliament in 1701 as the Whig MP for Castle Rising, later representing King’s Lynn. The Whigs later evolved into the Liberal party. His sharp political acumen and unwavering loyalty to the Whigs swiftly earned him a place in government.
In the reign of Queen Anne, Walpole rose through the ranks, serving as Secretary at War and then Treasurer of the Navy. When the Tories gained power, his fortunes waned and, in 1712, he was impeached on dubious corruption charges and briefly imprisoned in the Tower of London. It did little to deter his ambitions. When the Whigs regained control following the accession of George I in 1714, Walpole was back at the centre of government, soon becoming First Lord of the Treasury and Chancellor of the Exchequer.
A Master of Survival
By 1721, Walpole had consolidated his position to the extent that he was effectively running the country. During the South Sea Bubble crisis – a financial collapse that had rocked the economy –Walpole deftly managed the fallout, restoring confidence and preventing further turbulence.
Walpole’s political longevity owed a great deal to his ability to maintain the favour of King George I and, later, George II. Indeed he was gifted a London property by King George II in 1732 that remains synonymous with British Prime Ministers – 10 Downing Street. Unlike some political rivals, he understood the value of royal support and ensured that both monarchs saw him as indispensable. The royal alliance enabled him to dominate Parliament, enjoy wealthy patronage and build a network of loyal supporters to maintain control over the House of Commons. As he once famously said – ‘All those men have their price’.
The First Prime Minister
After decades of political and religious turmoil, Walpole brought stability to Britain. He was tireless in his pursuit of peace abroad and avoided costly wars, prioritising trade, economic growth, and financial prudence. Critics accused him of corruption and self-interest, but his tenure allowed Britain to flourish, strengthening its economy and consolidating its growing empire.
Walpole’s tenure also saw significant changes in how government functioned. The term ‘Prime Minister’ initially had a derogatory sense, but his position as head of government became increasingly formalised. He chaired Cabinet meetings, dictated policy, and acted as the intermediary between the Crown and Parliament. In this way, he established many of the precedents that shaped the modern role of the Prime Minister.
His time in government was not without controversy. He encountered opposition from both within his own party and from the Tories, who objected to his dominance. His control over political appointments and the press, and his high-powered friends, bred accusations of corruption. And he was criticised for his reluctance to reform outdated electoral systems and his suppression of political dissent. Yet, his ability to outmanoeuvre opponents ensured that he remained in power for an unprecedented twenty-one years.
Decline and Fall
Despite his political skill, Walpole’s power eventually waned. By the late 1730s, his popularity was in decline, exacerbated by economic woes, growing opposition in Parliament, and disputes over foreign policy. The War of Jenkins’ Ear (1739) – a complex conflict with Spain, ostensibly over trade which included control of slave routes – marked a turning point. His long-standing policy of peace was upended, and his ability to manage Parliament diminished.
He resigned in 1742 after losing control of the Commons. The King elevated him to the House of Lords as the Earl of Orford, and he largely withdrew from public life. He died from a bladder stone in 1745, leaving behind a radically changed political landscape.
Walpole’s Legacy
Walpole’s place in the history of British politics is undeniable. He was not only the first to wield the powers associated with modern Prime Ministers, but he laid the foundations for a system of government that looked to balance parliamentary authority with royal influence. His tenure marked a transition towards stability after years of upheaval.
While his reliance on high-ranking patronage and political manoeuvring drew his critics, he proved the effectiveness of pragmatic, rather than ideological, leadership. By focusing less on conflict and more on economic growth, he oversaw a time of relative peace and prosperity.
He may not have held the title of Prime Minister, but he was in many ways the architect of Britain’s modern political system and his part in defining the office of PM is undisputed.