People
Historical Figures and Influential People in History
Explore rulers, generals, thinkers, scientists and reformers who shaped world history. Search for a specific person, or browse by era, region, country and A–Z.
Early Modern Era Figures from United Kingdom
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3 results
Sir Francis Drake
1540–1596Europe
The Spanish called him a pirate and put a price on his head; the English called him a hero and made him a knight — and both were essentially right.
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Sir Robert Walpole
1676–1745Europe
He quietly built the role of Britain’s first prime minister, mastering parliament and patronage while keeping a fragile kingdom stable through war scares and political intrigue.
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Spencer Compton
1673–1743Europe
He spent decades as a steady political operator, becoming prime minister almost by default when royal favour shifted, yet struggled to control the powerful forces around him.
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