Why Pitt remained Prime Minister for so long

Question 1

Introduction: (Context and hint at conclusion)

Answer 1

• William Pitt the Younger was appointed Prime Minister by George III in 1783. He remained as PM for all but three years of his life and spent around 17 years total as PM. Pitt died in 1806. He was an astute and skilful political with lots of support.

Question 2

Paragraph 1: Pitt was a lucky beneficiary of circumstance

Answer 2

• George III wanted Pitt as PM and they had a good working relationship. George III helped Pitt and gave him support and they had a generally good relationship.
• Because of his age Pitt was not tainted by previous administrations’ failure and corruption due to his age as he was just 24 years old.
• Pitt was PM doing a period of relatively strong British economy as perceived National Recovery of the economy and it was around the time of the start of industrialisation.
• Pitt’s political rivals in the 1790’s lacked credibility.

Question 3

Paragraph 2: Pitt was an astute and skilful politician

Answer 3

• Pitt was able to hold onto support in the commons and learn from his mistakes, e.g. Over issues such as parliamentary reform.
• Pitt’s financial measures appealed to both politicians and the public, give some examples of measures.
• Measures stimulated economy = popular with merchant class
• Astute and pragmatic approach to events eg. Regency Crisis and threat of Revolution in 1790’s.

Question 4

Paragraph 3: Establishment of new basis of support in 1794

Answer 4

• Established new basis of support in 1794
• Collapse of opposition led to the isolation of Fox and leading opposition Whigs joined Pitt in Government e.g. Duke of Portland.
• Reflects Pitt’s desire for national rather than party politics.

Question 5

Conclusion: (must make a clear judgement)

Answer 5

• Several factors - re-cap main reasons

- Highlight Pitt was an astute and skilful politician in his own right