William Petty
William Petty was a Whig politician and member of the House of Lords in Great Britain.
Contents
History
William Petty was born William Fitzmaurice, eldest son of John Fitzmaurice. John Fitzmaurice unexpectedly inherited the estates of Henry Petty, earl of Shelburne. For this he changed his family name to Petty. William is sometimes called William Petty-Fitzmaurice.
Petty fought in the Seven Years' War and won election to both the English and Irish House of Commons while abroad. His father died in 1761 though, leaving him to inherit his titles and seat in the House of Lords. He was only able to return to England and assume that seat in 1764.
Petty was appointed to government in 1766, but was sidelined after he unsuccessfully argued for intervention in the French conquest of Corsica. He was removed in 1768.
Petty returned to government under Watson-Wentworth. He unfortunately died just months later, and George III selected Petty to succeed him. However, Fox refused to continue under Petty's leadership, and formed a coalition with North to force their government.
Petty was created marquess of Lansdowne in 1784 and largely retired from politics.