Walpole steps down

Long-serving prime minister Robert Walpole resigned on 29 January after a vote of no confidence over corruption in a byelection. This was the end of a period of almost 21 years in the top post, sometimes called the ‘Robinocracy’. George II wept on being presented with his resignation, which finally took place in February. However, Walpole was created the Earl of Orford, and continued to have influence over the king.