Francis North, 1st Baron Guilford

Sitter in 15 portraits
Trained in the law, Francis North was called to the Bar in 1661, and, at just thirty-four, became Solicitor General. He was elected as an MP and was made Attorney General in 1673. His rapid rise continued and two years later North was made Chief Justice of Common Pleas, a post that required he leave the Commons. In 1682, King Charles II named North Lord Keeper of the Great Seal, thus putting him in charge of the chancery, its court and the passing of all royal charters and commissions. He was ennobled the following year. North was against the pro-Catholic stance taken by the new king, James II, and it was likely that he would have been removed from office, but he died before this could happen.