Britain in the 18th Century

George I became king in 1714. He was also the ruler of Hanover (part of Germany) and he much preferred to stay there. George could not speak English and was content to leave the running of Britain to his ministers.

In 1711 the South Sea Company was formed. It was given exclusive rights to trade with the Spanish colonies in South America. (It transported many slaves from Africa to South America). In 1720 shares in the company became massively overpriced. Then the share price collapsed. (The South Sea Bubble burst) and many investors lost huge sums of money.

From 1721 Robert Walpole (1676-1745) became the king's chief minister. People began to call him Prime Minister (Originally it was not an official title). Walpole moved into Downing Street in 1735. 10 Downing Street became the Prime Minister's official residence in 1732. Walpole resigned in February 1742.

George I died in 1727 and was succeeded by his son George II. Like his father George II was content to leave government largely in the hands of his ministers. However he was the last British king to lead an army into battle. He led them to victory against the French in June 1743.

In 1756 Britain became embroiled in the Seven Years War (1756-1763) with France. In 1759 the British, led by General Wolfe, won a great victory at Quebec. That ensured that Canada became a British colony rather than a French one. Meanwhile in 1757 Clive won the battle of Plassey, which ensured that India became British rather than French.

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