UK Citizenship Practice Test 2026 - Free Citizenship Practice Questions and Study Guide

The first British Prime Minister is recognized as Sir Robert Walpole, who served from 1721 to 1742. He is often referred to as the first Prime Minister due to his long tenure and the fact that he effectively led the government and was the head of the Cabinet during that time. While the title "Prime Minister" was not officially used until much later, Walpole's role represented the emergence of the office as we understand it today.

His leadership established many practices and principles that would define the role of Prime Minister, including the importance of working closely with the Cabinet and maintaining the confidence of the House of Commons. Hence, the acknowledgment of Walpole as the first Prime Minister marks a significant point in the evolution of British parliamentary democracy.

In contrast, the other individuals mentioned played pivotal roles in their own distinct time periods but came after Walpole in terms of political office and are not regarded as the first to hold the position of Prime Minister.