King George I Photos

Ruled Great Britain 1 August 1714 - 11 June 1727. George I, Queen Anne's successor to the throne of Great Britain, was the first in a line of Kings from the House of Hanover (part of what is now northern Germany). He attained the throne because he was the closest Protestant relative of Queen Anne. George had lived the first part of his adult life in Hanover where he became ruler after the death of his father. George I seemed happiest on his return visits to Hanover. He spent less time running England than previous monarchs and allowed Parliament an enlarged role. Eventually, he left Robert Walpole to run the country, in essence, making him the first Prime Minister although that title was not used until later.