His attempt to reform the excise tax by extending it to wine and tobacco failed miserably after generating riotous opposition.  
His attempt to reform the excise tax by extending it to wine and tobacco failed miserably after generating riotous opposition.  He perfected the system of political patronage, putting "placemen" loyal to him in important positions in the government.  His rise to power peaked after he was appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer in 1721, in which capacity he restored confidence in the government following the South Sea Bubble.  Forced into declaring war against Spain over Jenkins' ear, he resigned in disgust in 1741. FTP, who is this man, considered Britain's first prime minister?
His attempt to reform the excise tax by extending it to wine and tobacco failed miserably after generating riotous opposition.  
Robert Walpole