George I, at his death in 1727, was succeeded by his son, GEORGE II, a
prince of moderate abilities, but conscientious, and free from all
gross faults. In the early part of his reign, Walpole effected some
useful measures, and upon the whole was a vigorous and enlightened
administrator of public affairs, though nothing can justify the
extensive system of bribery by which alone he pretended to manage the
House of Commons. After a peace of extraordinary duration, he was
urged, much against his will, into a contest with Spain, on account of
some efforts made by that country to check an illicit trade carried on
by British merchants in its American colonies.