Lord North — British Statesman born on April 13, 1732, died on August 05, 1792

Frederick North, 2nd Earl of Guilford KG PC, more often known by his courtesy title, Lord North, which he used from 1752 until 1790, was Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1770 to 1782. He led Great Britain through most of the American War of Independence. He also held a number of other cabinet posts, including Home Secretary and Chancellor of the Exchequer... (wikipedia)

Men may be popular without being ambitious, but there is hardly an ambitious man who does not try to be popular.
Four or five frigates will do the business without any military force.