Smith-Stanley, the 14th Earl of Derby, was born on 29 March 1799. He was leader of the Conservative Party from 1846 through to 1868, during which time he was Prime Minister three times. His first government had a minority mandate in February 1852, and featured Benjamin Disraeli as Chancellor of the Exchequer. During this time the Second Anglo-Burmese War began.

The Earl of Derby's second term saw the establishment of the British Raj, the Secretary of State for India, and the Government of India Act. His ministry ended on 11 June 1859 after a parliamentary vote of no-confidence. Derby led a third government in 1866. During his ministry the 1867 Reform Act was passed. This led to the resignation of the then Secretary for India, Lord Cranborne. He retired in 1868 and was succeeded by Benjamin Disraeli. In India, the Orissa Famine affected many, and tea growing was introduced to Ceylon.