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Clinton, George (c. 1686 - 1761)
Governor, 1731
George Clinton was born in Oxfordshire, England, c. 1686, son of Francis Fiennes
Clinton, the sixth earl of Lincoln. He joined the Royal Navy in 1707 and became a captain in
1716. In 1731, Clinton was appointed Governor of Newfoundland as well as commodore of the
fleet. He was the first officer to hold both titles.
While governor, Clinton's primary duty was to observe the behaviour of the newly-
appointed local magistrates. Clinton favoured the magistrates when disputes arose between them
and the fishing admirals, and proved to be an efficient administrator.
Clinton continued his career in the navy after he left Newfoundland, and was appointed
governor of New York in 1741.
After returning to England, he was elected to Parliament in 1754, and appointed Admiral
of the Fleet in 1757. He died on July 10, 1761 at the age of 75.
August, 2000.
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