Description: (Preacher)
Sir George Downing, 1st Baronet, was an Anglo-Irish diplomat and financial reformer known for his service under the Commonwealth of England and Charles II. He implemented significant reforms in public finance as Teller of the Exchequer, including the implementation of the Navigation Acts to safeguard English maritime commerce. Downing played a crucial part in the acquisition of New York City from the Dutch in 1665. His legacy is honored in New York with streets named after him and in London with Downing Street.