The Importance of Public Service

Buckingham inherited a naval service that had become inefficient and riddled with corruption. He was determined to change practices and appointed as commissioners for the Navy. Under his care the Navy halved its costs and began to meet the objective of producing two new ships every year, the first being launched in front of the King in July 1619. So Buckingham became immensely rich, and in enriching his family would cause resentment and in some cases make very poor decisions. His motivations were much more complex and more public spirited than his failures and acquisition of wealth might imply.