PITT MAKES HIS FIRST APPLICATION TO STAND FOR PARLIAMENT FOR CAMBRIDGE AT THE AGE OF 20 PITT (William, ‘The Younger’, 1759-1806, Prime Minister)

Fine Autograph Letter Signed to the an unnamed correspondent saying that it is his “intention to offer myself a Candidate to represent the University of Cambridge at the General Election, and other Candidates having already declared themselves I am under the necessity of submitting my wishes as soon as possible to all the Members of the Senate. I flatter myself you will think this a sufficient Apology for the Liberty I take in troubling you with this Application, and allow me to assure you that I should esteem the honor of your Support a very particular Obligation...”, 1 side 4to., Pembroke Hall, 18th October

He was admitted to Pembroke College, Cambridge, on 26th April 1773, a month before turning fourteen. He studied political philosophy, classics, mathematics, trigonometry, chemistry and history. At Cambridge, Pitt was tutored by George Pretyman, who became a close personal friend. Pitt later appointed Pretyman Bishop of Lincoln, then Winchester, and drew upon his advice throughout his political career. While at Cambridge, he befriended the young William Wilberforce, who became a lifelong friend and political ally in Parliament. During the general elections of September 1780, at the age of 21, Pitt contested the University of Cambridge seat, but lost. In 1784 Pitt won a personal triumph when he was elected a Member for the University of Cambridge, a constituency he had long coveted and which he would continue to represent for the remainder of his life.

Item Date:  1779

Stock No:  41671      £750

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