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George I and the first Prime Minister
Study note
When Queen Anne died in 1714, Parliament chose George I, a German prince, as the next king because he was Anne's nearest Protestant relative. George I did not speak good English, so he relied heavily on his ministers. The most important minister became known as the Prime Minister, and Sir Robert Walpole was the first to hold this position, from 1721 to 1742.
Memory tip: German-speaking George I leans on ministers; Walpole becomes first PM, 1721 to 1742.
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Who is regarded as the first British Prime Minister?
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