Lord Burghley
/ˌlɔːd ˈbɜːli/
/ˌlɔːrd ˈbɜːrli/
- William Cecil (1520-98) a British politician. He was one of the most important members of Queen Elizabeth I's government, working as Secretary of State (1558-72) and lord treasurer (1572-98). He was responsible for making England a strong military and economic power. He was also responsible for many grand buildings, including Burghley House. He was made a knight in 1551 and a baron in 1571.