Thomas Pelham-Holles

The elder brother of Henry Pelham, Thomas Pelham studied Classics at Clare Hall, Cambridge, but did not graduate. He became the Duke of Newcastle in 1715 and spent his entire parliamentary career in the Lords, having taken his seat shortly after becoming 21. He was an influential election broker, controlling many constituencies, and his connection by marriage to the Marlboroughs further enhanced his influence. He was part of Robert Walpole's inner group from 1722 and his power grew as Walpole's declined following the death of Queen Caroline in 1737. He championed Britain's entry into the war of the Austrian succession in 1741 despite Walpole's opposition.

Newcastle took over as chief minister on Henry Pelham's death in 1754. His first term was dominated by foreign affairs, including the beginning of a long military conflict around the world with France in the Seven Years' War (1756-1763). Early reverses, such as Braddock's defeat at the Monongahela and the loss of Minorca, led to his resignation in 1756. He returned to office the following year, having secured the support of William Pitt 'the Elder', who became Secretary of State for the Southern Department. Newcastle's influence declined from 1760 with the accession of George III, and Pitt's resignation a year later. His final year as head of government saw parliamentary battles over the financing of the war in Europe. Following his resignation as First Lord of the Treasury on 26 May 1762, his influence declined as his allies deserted him or were purged from the Government, although he joined Marquess of Rockingham's Government in 1765 as Lord Privy Seal. Biography source: [1, pp. 16-21]