Henry Dundas

1742-1811

Henry Dundas was a prominent Scottish politician, he was also a significant in anti-slave labor abolition attempts, and the last person to be impeached in the House of Lords.

Henry Dundas was born on the 28th of April 1742, in Dalkeith, Midlothian. His father, Robert Dundas was a very influential man in the Scotland, being Lord President of the Court of Sessions. Henry Dundas utilized his father prominence and attended the Royal High School and the University of Edinburgh.

Henry Dundas was admitted to the Faculty of Advocates in 1763. His father's influence, and his half brother's succession to the position of Lord President of the court of Sessions, certainly assisted with his rapid rise in the legal career. Henry Dundas became the Solicitor General for Scotland in 1766, and received an appointment as the Lord Advocate in 1775. Though at this time he was already greatly dedicated to pursuing a political career and being involved in public affairs.

Henry Dundas entered the Parliament of Great Britain in 1774, representing Midlothian. By 1791 Henry Dundas had attained the position of Secretary of the State for the Home Department. Using this position he excreted pressure against the abolition of the Slave Trade. In 1804 he became the First Lord of the Admirality. Though an investigation was soon launched against him and his alleged misappropriation of funds while serving as the treasurer of the Admirality in the years between 1782 and 1800. He was impeached in 1806.