He was the younger brother of the famous essayist Joseph Addison,[1][2] and the second son of Rev.

[1] Gulston completed his studies in England before entering politics.

[3] In December 1708, he was appointed Secretary to Lord Wharton, the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland.

[3] Gulston Addison became President of Madras on 18 September 1709 on the sudden removal of Thomas Pitt following an accusation of corruption brought against him;[citation needed] however he was President for barely a month during which he attended around five consultations, in the last one of which, he instructed the captain of the ship "Heathcote" to treat Thomas Pitt with due respect and courtesy.

Fraser, the Deputy Governor of Fort St David was appointed Acting President and Edmund Montague, the Deputy Governor was appointed President till he arrived.