Harriet Pelham-Holles, Duchess Of Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Henrietta "Harriet" Pelham-Holles, Duchess of Newcastle upon Tyne and Duchess of Newcastle-under-Lyne, was born in 1701 and died on 17 July 1776. She was the wife of Thomas Pelham-Holles, 1st Duke of Newcastle, who served as a British statesman and prime minister.

Family Background:

Harriet was the daughter of Francis Godolphin, 2nd Earl of Godolphin, and Henrietta Churchill, 2nd Duchess of Marlborough. Her familial lineage includes notable figures such as Sidney Godolphin, 1st Earl of Godolphin, her grandfather, and John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, along with Sarah Churchill, Duchess of Marlborough, her grandmother.

Marriage and Personal Life:

Prior to her marriage, she was known as Lady Harriet Godolphin. She married Thomas Pelham-Holles on 2 April 1717. The union did not produce any children.

Political Affiliation and Loyalty:

Harriet was a committed supporter of the Whig party and the Hanoverian succession. Her political allegiance was aligned with her husband's, and she maintained this stance throughout her life.

Social and Cultural Contributions:

During the 1720s, Harriet and her husband became well known for hosting elaborate social gatherings. These events were renowned for their grandeur and social significance, and they continued for several decades. The gatherings were attended by individuals across the political spectrum, including some of her husband's opponents, reflecting the social and political networks of the time.

References:

- Browning, Reed. *The Duke of Newcastle*. Yale University Press, 1975.

- Field, Ophelia. *The Kit-Cat Club: Friends who Imagined a Nation*. Harper Collins, 2008.

Note: The information provided emphasizes verifiable historical facts, including biographical details, family lineage, marriage, political affiliations, and social activities.