George Canning

George Canning (c. 1730 – 11 April 1771) was an Irish writer and the father of British Prime Minister George Canning. Born around 1730 in Garvagh, County Londonderry, he was the eldest of three sons of Stratford Canning and Letitia Newburgh. His family background included disinheritance issues, as it is believed that his father was highly strict and disapproved of Canning's romantic relationship, leading to his disinheritance. Following this, Canning was provided with an annual allowance of £150. His family included his brother Stratford Canning, 1st Viscount Stratford de Redcliffe, who was also disinherited, and his brother Paul, who inherited the family estate and whose son became George Canning, 1st Baron Garvagh.

Canning relocated to London to pursue a legal career, entering the Middle Temple on 23 June 1752. He was called to the English bar in 1764. During his career, he was known to support the radical politician John Wilkes. Canning practiced law unsuccessfully and also attempted to establish himself as a wine merchant, but these ventures did not succeed.

In addition to his legal and commercial pursuits, Canning engaged in writing. His published works include a modern version of Horace's first Satire in 1762, a translation of Lucretius's Anti-Lucretius in 1766, and a public critique titled "An appeal to the public against the Critical Review" along with a collection of poems in 1767. Despite his efforts, his literary career did not achieve notable success, and he continued to live in poverty.

On 21 May 1768, Canning married Mary Ann Costello at Marylebone Church. The couple had three children: Letitia and Thomas, who both died in infancy, and a son named George. The surviving son, George Canning (1770–1827), went on to become a prominent Tory politician and served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

George Canning died on 11 April 1771 at the Middle Temple due to inflammation of the bowels.