Chapter 2: Pitt's Successors Flashcards
When and why did Pitt resign?
1801 over George III’s refusal to accept Catholic Emancipation, which Pitt had promised as part of the deal over the Act of Union with Ireland.
Who was Pitt’s first successor?
Henry Addington, recommended by Pitt.
What were Addington’s (1st successor)’s achievements?
He introduced improvements in income tax collection and instigated several measures to attempt to win the war with France.
How was Addington’s ministry weak?
His ministry was weakened by his own lacklustre performance in Parliament and opposition schemes to bring him down. Many were convinced that the country needed Pitt and by 1804, Addington’s support had drained away.
How long had Pitt been in office for by 1801?
Seventeen years.
When did Pitt return to office and how long did this last?
- He attempted to form a coalition government, but George III interfered and refused to allow Pitt to include Fox and so made this impossible. Pitt was now unwell, and no longer had such a tight grip on government matters. He died 1806, and was probably heading for defeat in Commons at the time.
What happened after Pitt died?
There followed a succession of governments, led by politicians whose main focus had to be the conduct of the war, and as a result there was little progress in domestic affairs.
Who was PM after Addington and Pitt?
Grenville. An important measure achieved by him was the Abolition of the Slave Trade (1807). Pitt had tried this in 1788 but was destroyed by powerful commercial interests. When Grenville tried to raise the issue of Catholic Emancipation, the King’s absolute refusal brought his resignation.
Who were the PMs after Pitt, Addington, Pitt and Grenville?
Duke of Portland (a period marked by corruption and military ineptitude) until 1809, then Perceval who was killed in 1812.
What did Percevel (PM 1809-12) had to deal with?
Serious trade crisis, opposition to high taxation, poplar unrest and try to hold together a Cabinet of the quarrelsome factions.
