Walpole, Sir Robert

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Walpole, Sir Robert

WALPOLE, SIR ROBERT. (1676–1745). British politician. Often described as the first "prime minister," he dominated British politics for over twenty years and was once regarded as the architect of Georgian stability. A masterly parliamentary manager with the full confidence of George I and George II, his sheer political longevity shaped the office he held. Horace (or Horatio) Walpole, the diarist, was his son.

SEE ALSO Walpole, Horatio (or Horace).

                           revised by John Oliphant

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