William Pitt the Elder

William Pitt the Elder, 1st Earl of Chatham (1708–1778), was the British Whig statesman called the Great Commoner for his long refusal to accept a title. He won fame through his House of Commons oratory in the 1730s, denouncing corruption and royal subsidies.

As effective leader of the ministry from 1756 to 1761, he directed Britain's effort in the Seven Years' War, securing the conquest of Canada and dominance in India. He accepted an earldom in 1766 and served as prime minister until 1768, later defending the American colonies against coercion. He died in May 1778.