15 March 1779

Birth of William Lamb, 2nd Viscount Melbourne, Whig Prime Minister 1834 & 1835-41

Although twice Prime Minister, Melbourne is chiefly remembered for the affairs of his wife, Lady Caroline, most notoriously with Lord Byron and for his tutelage and close relationship with the young Queen Victoria. However, Melbourne’s achievements were more notable than he is often given credit for. He served as Chief Secretary for Ireland under George Canning and Viscount Goderich and was an effective Home Secretary in the Whig government of Earl Grey. Melbourne’s governments reformed local government, increased religious tolerance and reformed the Poor Law. Melbourne resigned after the Whig’s defeat in the 1841 general election. A stroke the following year precluded a return to political life and he died in 1848 aged 69.