Deputy postmaster general for North America and the West Indies.

Ensign in British army (1693). Rose to rank of lieutenant colonel in the War of the Spanish Succession; wounded at Blenheim and captured at Oudenarde. Lieutenant governor of Virginia (1710-22); energetically concerned with Indian policy, defense, and western settlement. Deputy postmaster general for North America and the West Indies (1730). Extended regular postal service from the northern colonies to Williamsburg and increased its efficiency. Commissioned major general and second-in- command of the expedition against Cartagena (1739).

Son of Robert and Catherine (Mercer) Elliott Spotswood. Born in Tangier. Married Anne Butler Brayne (1724); four children.