William Legge, second Earl of Dartmouth, was a British politician and statesman of the 18th century.
Background
William Legge, second Earl of Dartmouth, was born June 20, 1731. He was the younger son of George Legge, Viscount Lewisham, and of Elizabeth, daughter and heiress of Sir Arthur Kaye. His father died in 1732 and his mother then married Francis, seventh Baron North and subsequently Earl of Guildford, who died in 1745.
Education
William was educated at Westminster School and at Trinity College, Oxford, gaining an initial degree in 1749 and an Master of Arts degree in 1751.
Career
He took his seat in the House of Lords in 1754. At first, Dartmouth was barely active in the House of Lords. He served briefly as president of the Board ofTrade and Foreign Plantations in the Marquess of Rockingham’s administration in 1765, but resigned with the formation of the Duke of Grafton’s ministry in 1766. He was again given office in Lord North’s ministry (1770-1782), in August 1772, when he succeeded Lord Hillsborough as secretary of state for the colonies and as president of the Board of Trade and Foreign Plantations. He retained these positions until November 1775, when he became Lord Privy Seal.
After leaving his colonial post in 1775, he continued as Lord Privy Seal; but he gave that post up in 1782, when Lord North resigned as prime minister. From April to December 1783 he served as Lord Steward of the Household - his last office.
Views
In his colonial role Dartmouth sought to understand the American colonists. Dartmouth generally supported Lord North’s conciliatory policy on the American colonies, but in 1775 he carried a bill for restraining the trade of the American colonies. Even while out of office he was deeply involved in the question of the independence of America, rejecting the Duke of Grafton’s attempt at conciliation in 1776 and advocating the use of an “overpowering force” to settle the issue of American independence.
Personality
Quotes from others about the person
Benjamin Franklin acknowledged that Dartmouth was “a truly good man, and wishes sincerely a good understanding with the colonies, but does not seem to have strength equal to his wishes”.
Connections
He married Frances Catherine, the only daughter and heiress of Sir Charles Gunter Nicholl, on 11 June 1755.