William Pitt The Elder at The National Portrait Gallery, London

myminifactory

William Pitt the Elder was a legendary statesman who dominated British politics as the 1st Earl of Chatham from 1708 until his passing in 1778. He led Britain through some of its most pivotal moments, serving as Prime Minister and navigating the country's complex relationships with European powers. When public opinion demanded action from King George II in 1756, Pitt took charge, guiding the House of Commons to a series of decisive victories over France that cemented British supremacy at sea and expanded the empire's reach into India and Canada. His leadership during this period earned him widespread acclaim, but he eventually resigned in 1761, only to return to power four years later as Prime Minister, accepting an earldom in the process. Unfortunately, his second tenure was cut short by illness, which forced him into retirement. Despite struggling with debilitating manic-depression, Pitt refused to be defeated, rising from his sickbed in 1778 to advocate for a more tolerant attitude towards British colonists in America. As a devoted father, he also left behind an enduring legacy through his son William Pitt the Younger. This magnificent sculpture of Pitt was crafted by skilled artist Joseph Wilton (1722-1803) and dated circa 1766, serving as a testament to his lasting impact on British history.