Which Whig leaders became important patrons of Joseph Addison?
The primary Whig leaders who served as important patrons to Joseph Addison were John Somers, Baron Somers and Charles Montagu, 1st Earl of Halifax.1
Addison first gained their favorable notice in 1695 after dedicating his A Poem to his Majesty to Somers. Recognizing his potential value to the government, these influential statesmen helped secure a treasury grant that allowed Addison to travel and prepare for a career in public service. Throughout his life, Addison maintained a close association with them as a member of the Kit-Cat Club, an organization of prominent Whig leaders and literary figures. His enduring connection to Halifax was notable, as Addison was eventually buried near his old patron in Westminster Abbey. Additionally, during his time as Irish secretary, Addison served under the earl of Wharton, another significant political figure of the era.123