Masham, Abigail (1670–1734)

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Masham, Abigail (1670–1734)

English confidante of Queen Anne. Name variations: Baroness Masham of Otes. Born Abigail Hill in 1670; died Dec 6, 1734; dau. of Francis Hill, wealthy merchant of London; married Samuel Masham, a page at Court, in 1707.

Was given a position in Queen Anne's household at Sarah Churchill's request; proved attentive and eager to please; when Sarah's relationship with Anne began deteriorating, supplanted Sarah as royal favorite; became involved in the intrigues of Court, especially those in favor of the Tories and the exiled House of Stuart.

See also Women in World History.