Spencer Perceval remains the only British Prime Minister to have been assassinated while holding office, a term that ended abruptly on 11 May 1812. Serving as head of government during a period of intense economic strain and civil unrest, he navigated domestic political instability and the incapacitation of King George III while maintaining a career founded on legal expertise.
Background and Legal Training
Born in 1762 in Mayfair, London, Perceval was the seventh son of the 2nd Earl of Egmont. He attended Harrow School and later graduated from Trinity College, Cambridge, in 1782. Lacking significant inherited wealth, he pursued a career in law, entering Lincoln's Inn and being called to the bar in 1786. His early legal work included roles as counsel for the Crown, notably in the 1792 trial of Thomas Paine and the 1794 prosecution of John Horne Tooke. By 1796, he achieved the rank of King's Counsel.
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Perceval entered the House of Commons in 1796 as the Member of Parliament for Northampton, a seat he retained for the duration of his life. He was a follower of William Pitt the Younger, consistently supporting the constitution and public order. His political rise was swift, leading to his appointment as Solicitor General and later Attorney General for England and Wales under the Addington ministry. He subsequently served as Chancellor of the Exchequer and Leader of the House of Commons before becoming Prime Minister in 1809.
Government and Assassination
As Prime Minister, First Lord of the Treasury, and Chancellor of the Exchequer, Perceval led a government that faced significant crises, including Luddite riots and economic depression. His tenure ended in the lobby of the Palace of Westminster when he was killed by John Bellingham, a merchant with a grievance against the administration. He is buried at St Luke's Church, Charlton.
Fast facts
- Born: 1762, Mayfair
- Died: 1812, Palace of Westminster
- Prime Minister: 1809-1812
- Education: Harrow School and Trinity College
- Legal Profession: Barrister and King's Counsel
- Burial: St Luke's Church, Charlton
- Citizenship: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland
- Final Position: First Lord of the Treasury
Questions readers ask
Was Spencer Perceval ever a member of the House of Lords?
No, he served as a member of the House of Commons representing Northampton.
Why was Spencer Perceval assassinated?
He was killed by John Bellingham, a merchant who held a grievance against his government.
Achievements
- Educated at Trinity College and Harrow School
- Worked as politician, lawyer and jurist
