Charles Cornwallis, 3rd Baron Cornwallis, English politician, Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk (b. 1655)

The Life and Legacy of Charles Cornwallis, 3rd Baron Cornwallis

Charles Cornwallis, 3rd Baron Cornwallis PC (28 December 1655 – 29 April 1698) was a distinguished English nobleman and politician who navigated the often turbulent waters of late 17th-century British politics. Born into a prominent aristocratic family, he ascended to a position of considerable influence, most notably serving as First Lord of the Admiralty, a crucial role in a maritime nation.

Early Life and Succession

Born on 28 December 1655, Charles Cornwallis inherited a legacy of public service and landed gentry. He was the son of Charles Cornwallis, 2nd Baron Cornwallis, and Steere Nevile. His life took a significant turn in 1673 when, at the age of eighteen, he succeeded his father, becoming the 3rd Baron Cornwallis. This inheritance bestowed upon him not only a significant estate but also a seat in the House of Lords, marking his formal entry into the political landscape of England.

Political Career and Public Service

Lord Cornwallis embarked upon a political career characterized by loyalty to the Crown and active participation in the government. His most prominent public office was that of First Lord of the Admiralty, a position he held from March 1692 to April 1693. In this capacity, he was at the helm of the Royal Navy, responsible for its administration, strategy, and maintenance during a period of significant naval activity, including the ongoing Nine Years' War against France. This role was vital for national defense and the projection of English power globally. Beyond the Admiralty, he was also sworn as a member of the Privy Council (PC) in 1692, an advisory body to the sovereign, signifying his close counsel to the monarch. His commitment to the new monarchy established after the Glorious Revolution of 1688 was further demonstrated by his service as a Gentleman of the Bedchamber to King William III from 1689 until his death, and as Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk during the same period, overseeing county administration and local militia.

Personal Life and Marriages

Lord Cornwallis's personal life was marked by two significant marriages, each reflecting the social and political dynamics of his era.

His first marriage took place on 27 December 1673, at the venerable Westminster Abbey. He married Elizabeth Fox, the daughter of the highly influential Sir Stephen Fox. Sir Stephen was a remarkable figure, known as a wealthy financier and politician who served as Paymaster of the Forces and founded Chelsea Hospital. This union thus connected the ancient Cornwallis barony with the emerging wealth and influence of a prominent self-made statesman. Elizabeth, however, passed away relatively young on 28 February 1681 in Tunbridge Wells. From this marriage, they had a son, also named Charles, who would later succeed him as the 4th Baron Cornwallis.

Following Elizabeth's death, Lord Cornwallis entered into an even more notable marriage. He wed Anne Scott, 1st Duchess of Buccleuch, in 1688. Anne was a truly exceptional figure, having inherited the Dukedom of Buccleuch in her own right as a Scottish peeress. She was also the widow of James Scott, 1st Duke of Monmouth, the illegitimate son of King Charles II. Monmouth had led a rebellion against King James II in 1685, a daring but ultimately failed attempt to claim the throne, which resulted in his execution. Marrying the Duchess of Buccleuch brought Lord Cornwallis immense prestige, wealth through her vast Scottish estates, and a complex connection to the highest echelons of both English and Scottish aristocracy, further cementing his social standing amidst the political shifts of the Glorious Revolution.

Death

Charles Cornwallis, 3rd Baron Cornwallis, passed away on 29 April 1698, at the age of 42. His life, though relatively short, was one of significant public service, political engagement, and notable personal connections that placed him at the heart of late 17th-century British society.

Frequently Asked Questions about Charles Cornwallis, 3rd Baron Cornwallis

Who was Charles Cornwallis, 3rd Baron Cornwallis?
He was a prominent English nobleman and politician who lived from 1655 to 1698. He held significant positions, most notably serving as First Lord of the Admiralty and a member of the Privy Council.
What was his most important political role?
His most significant role was serving as First Lord of the Admiralty from March 1692 to April 1693. In this capacity, he was responsible for the administration and strategic direction of the Royal Navy during a period of war.
Who was his first wife?
His first wife was Elizabeth Fox, daughter of Sir Stephen Fox, a distinguished financier and statesman. They married at Westminster Abbey in 1673.
Who was his second wife, and why was that marriage significant?
His second wife was Anne Scott, 1st Duchess of Buccleuch. This marriage was highly significant because Anne was a duchess in her own right with vast estates and was also the widow of James Scott, 1st Duke of Monmouth, King Charles II's executed illegitimate son. This union connected Lord Cornwallis to immense wealth and a unique position within the British aristocracy, navigating the complex legacies of the Stuart monarchy and the new Williamite regime.
What does "PC" after his name signify?
"PC" stands for Privy Councillor. It indicates that he was a member of the Privy Council, an advisory body to the sovereign, signifying his close involvement in governmental affairs.
When did he succeed to the barony?
He succeeded his father as the 3rd Baron Cornwallis in 1673, at the age of eighteen, which granted him a seat in the House of Lords.