Charles Grey 1764–1845

Meet the man who steered Britain through the crises of the early 1830s

Charles Grey was born in Fallodon, Northumberland, on 13 March

1764 and attended Eton and Cambridge. He was elected to the House of Commons at the age of 22, and quickly became one of the leaders of the Whig Party and a proponent of many reform movements. Grey became

Earl Grey on the death of his father in 1807. He was foreign secretary for a short period before being in opposition for 23 years.

Grey’s period of office as prime minister was short, from November 1830 to

July 1834, but he was one of the most influential premiers. He carried through the Reform Act, the abolition of slavery, and restrictions on the employment of children. He finally resigned because of disagreements with his colleagues over Ireland. Earl Grey tea is said to be named after him, following his grateful receipt of tea flavoured with bergamot oil. His busy life included fathering 16 children, and many affairs. He died at his home, Howick Hall in Northumberland, on 17 July 1845.