What was the remarkable story of William Pitt who became British prime minister at 24?

William Pitt was the youngest prime minister in Great Britain’s long history.

He entered Parliament in 1781 and got the top job when he was only 24. He had a good role model in his father, Pitt the Elder. The father, who was also prime minister of Great Britain, was known as the Great Commoner, even though he was elevated to the peerage as the Earl of Chatham.

In an age when oratory was both a means of persuasion and a form of high entertainment, Pitt the Elder was a master.

In a speech in the House of Commons in 1777 during hostilities between Britain and its American colonies, Pitt argued strongly against trying to stop American independence.

In a stirring and passionate address he said, ‘If I were an American, as I am an Englishman, while a foreign troop was landed in my country, I would never lay down my arms … never … never … NEVER!!’

His words were prophetic of course, for the American colonies ultimately gained their independence from Britain.

Pitt the younger died aged only 46 from renal failure and cirrhosis of the liver. His taste for alcohol began in his boyhood during late night drinking sessions discussing politics with his Father.

Source: General Historical Texts

More at: History

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