Elected in 1768, while still legally a minor, for the pocket
borough of Midhurst, Charles James Fox was the most
gifted orator of his generation. Only his waywardness
prevented him from reachingthe highest office - though
he did become Britain's first Foreign Secretary in 1782.

Initially a supporter of the 'Tory' Lord North, Fox joined
the Whigs in protest at North's American policy. His wit,
passion, and debating skills made a him a ferocious opposition
opponent of the American War. 

Fox also supported the French Revolution - and was eventually dismissed from the Privy Council for opposing war with revolutionary France. He was briefly Foreign Secretary again before his death in 1806. His long-standing rivalry in the Commons with the Tory William Pitt contributed to the clearer identification of Whigs and Tories as political parties.