19th Century British Prime Ministerial Material

[Makemakean]

Which gentlemen can you think of who were into politics in the 19th century, and showed the qualities of prime ministership, yet who never advanced to that position?

The first, and perhaps most obvious candidate would be the Whig Charles James Fox, who was a major figure in British politics right up to his death in 1806.

Furthermore, we have Sir Stafford Northcote. This fellow can be said to have actually been Prime Minister, serving as First Lord of the Treasury in the cabinet of Lord Salisbury, who narrowly outmaneuvered him from becoming Tory leader.

Which more can you think of?

 

[TheKnightIrish]

Sir George Cornewall Lewis - Lord Palmerston would rather have had him as his ultimate successor as leader of the party than Gladstone. Unfortunately Lewis caught and cold and died.

 

[Turquoise Blue]

Hmm... There is Daniel O'Connell which could happen if he focuses on limited independence, not an outright repeal of the Act of Union. Oh, and have him merge his Irish Repeal group into the Whig Party early on, and arrange a deal in which after the leader retires from leadership, have O'Connell succeed him. Probably implausible, but certainly possible.