James Oswald

Who was James Oswald?

James Oswald was a Scottish politician who sat in the House of Commons from 1741 to 1768.

Oswald was the son of James Oswald a politician of Kirkcaldy. He was admitted at Lincolns Inn in 1733

The Oswald family became the dominant force in Kirkcaldy politics in the 18th century and Dysart, the second largest burgh was controlled by the St. Clair interest. The combined Oswald and St. Clair influence often decided who was to be elected. Oswald was elected Member of Parliament for Dysart Burghs in 1741 and was a Commissioner of the Navy in 1745. In 1747 he exchanged the seat with James St Clair and was elected MP for Fife until 1754. In 1752 he was Commissioner for trade and plantations. Oswald exchanged seats with James St Clair again in 1754 and was elected MP for Dysart Burghs. He was Lord of the Treasury in 1760 and Vice Treasurer of Ireland in 1763. He retired in 1768 when his son James Townsend Oswald took over the seat.

Oswald died at the age of 52.