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The son of the first elector of Hanover, Ernest Augustus, and great grandson of James I, George I (1714-27) became king on the death of Queen Anne. He spent most of his reign in Hanover, Germany, never having learned English. However, George did leave competent administrators to control affairs in his absence and his reign witnessed the development of the role of prime minister.Sir Robert Walpole, a member of the House of Commons, played a key role in the Whig ranks, continuously making and losing vast sums of money for himself and for the country (in particular out of the slave traffic of South America). His success made him the most powerful of the Whigs and it became natural for him to preside over the meetings of the ministers.
Although the description was not yet applied, from now on there would invariably be a prime or first minister, surrounding himself with an entourage that was to develop into the Cabinet. The term \'Prime Minister\' was first applied as an insult by opponents - indicating someone too closely in touch with royal wishes.
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