"How did Walpole overcome the challenges to his ministry during his long period in high office; and why did he fall from power eventually in 1742?"
            
            
            
             By the time Robert Walpole eventually came to power in 1721, he had already cemented himself as an experienced and mature politician. He had entered Parliament in 1701, and had served the administration in many different departments culminating in his post as the First Lord of the Treasury and Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1715-1717. In all of his positions he held prior to 1721, he had been extremely successful and had proved himself to be resourceful, dependable and competent. These skills would prove to be very important in explaining the longevity and success of Walpole's reign as Britain's first Prime Minister.
            
             Walpole built his ministry, as did most eighteenth century monarchs, on holding the confidence of both the successive monarchs, and by holding the support of Parliament. Walpole was aware of the importance in gaining the trust of the Monarch, as they ultimately held the balance of power. Whilst under George I, Walpole faced little problems from the monarch, who despite not liking Walpole, trusted his political judgement and abilities. Yet Walpole never enjoyed sufficient influence with George, and much of the country's foreign policy was left to Townshend. Walpole's first serious monarchical challenge came with the death of George I in 1727. George II came to the throne, and immediately made it clear that he wanted to replace Walpole with Sir Spencer Compton. Walpole realised that his only chance to remain in power would rely upon him proving his indispensability to the new King. He did this by attaining for himself, one of the largest Civil List's ever voted for, with over 415 ministerial supporters, and an overall majority of 272. Walpole also managed to gain the support of Queen Caroline, whom was able to persuade George II in...