Years as Prime Minster

Edward Smith-Stanley, the 14th Earl of Derby, served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom three times, from 1852 to 1852, from 1858 to 1859, and from 1866 to 1868. During his time in office, he faced a number of significant challenges and made several important decisions.

One of Derby's most notable accomplishments as Prime Minister was the passing of the Reform Act of 1867, which extended the right to vote to more people and helped to modernize the political system in Britain. The act gave the vote to working-class men in towns and cities and increased the number of people eligible to vote from one million to nearly two and a half million. This was a significant expansion of the electorate and helped to reduce the influence of wealthy landowners in the political system.

Derby also played an important role in foreign policy, particularly in his efforts to improve relations with other European powers. He worked closely with his Foreign Secretary, Lord Malmesbury, to negotiate a treaty with France in 1854 that helped to settle a dispute over fishing rights in Newfoundland. He also maintained good relations with Russia and played a key role in the Congress of Paris in 1856, which helped to settle the Crimean War.

Another significant event during Derby's time in office was the Indian Rebellion of 1857, which erupted in May of that year. The rebellion, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny, was a major uprising against British rule in India and was sparked by a number of factors, including religious and cultural tensions and dissatisfaction with British policies. Derby's government sent troops to India to quell the rebellion, and the conflict lasted for more than a year. The British ultimately emerged victorious, but the rebellion had a profound impact on British rule in India and contributed to the country's eventual independence.

Derby's tenure as Prime Minister was also marked by political instability and infighting. His first government, which was formed in 1852, lasted only a few months before it was defeated in a vote of no confidence. His second government, which was formed in 1858, was similarly short-lived and was also defeated in a vote of no confidence. Derby's third and final government, which was formed in 1866, was more successful, but it too was plagued by political infighting and instability.

Despite the challenges he faced as Prime Minister, Derby was widely respected for his intelligence, his wit, and his political acumen. He was known for his ability to charm people from all walks of life and was a popular figure in the House of Commons. He was also an accomplished writer and historian and published several books and essays during his lifetime.

In summary, Edward Smith-Stanley, the 14th Earl of Derby, made several important decisions and faced significant challenges during his time as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. He is perhaps best known for his role in passing the Reform Act of 1867, which helped to modernize the political system in Britain, and for his efforts to improve relations with other European powers. However, his time in office was also marked by political instability and infighting, and his legacy as one of Britain's most important political figures is still felt today.