The Glorious Revolution of 1688, which led to the ousting of King James II of England, stands as a pivotal moment in British history. It marked the transition of the English monarchy from an absolute to a constitutional form of rule, and set the stage for modern democratic governance.
King James II, a Catholic monarch, ascended to the throne in 1685, following the death of his brother, King Charles II. His reign, however, quickly became controversial. James was determined to promote Catholicism in a predominantly Protestant nation, a decision that provoked widespread fear and anger. The English people were still scarred by the memories of the religious conflicts and persecutions of the past, and the idea of a Catholic monarch was seen as a threat to Protestant rule and liberties.
James’s policies alienated key segments of the English population, including the Anglican Church, Parliament, and the aristocracy. His attempts to grant religious tolerance to Catholics, as well as his actions to appoint Catholics to key positions of power, increased tensions. One of his most contentious actions was the birth of his son in 1688, which made the prospect of a Catholic dynasty even more likely. This was the tipping point for many who feared the establishment of a Catholic monarchy for generations to come.
In response to James’s growing unpopularity, a group of Protestant nobles, known as the "Immortal Seven," secretly invited William of Orange, the Dutch ruler and James's son-in-law, to intervene. William was already married to James’s daughter, Mary, who was a Protestant and the rightful heir to the throne. The group’s invitation was motivated by their desire to secure Protestant rule in England and limit the monarch's power. shutdown123