Overview
This lecture covers the causes, events, and consequences of the Glorious Revolution (1688-1689), focusing on the overthrow of James II, the role of William and Mary, and the resulting changes in British politics and society.
Fear of Catholic Tyranny
- The Glorious Revolution replaced James II with the Protestant William and Mary due to fears of Catholic absolutism.
- Protestants feared 'popery,' believing Catholics aimed to overthrow church and state for a Catholic monarchy.
- Public fear peaked during the Exclusion Crisis (1678–1681), fueled by plots like the Gunpowder Plot of 1605 and rumors from Titus Oates.
- Whig politicians attempted to exclude James (a Catholic) from succession, but failed after Charles II dissolved Parliament in 1681.
Rebellion and Revolt
- James II’s initial promises eased fears, but his efforts to aid Catholics alarmed Parliament and the Anglican establishment.
- James suspended laws against Catholics and appointed them to office, increasing opposition.
- The arrest and acquittal of seven Anglican bishops in 1688 demonstrated rising resistance.
Dutch Invasion and the Overthrow of James II
- Opposition leaders invited William of Orange to intervene when James II’s Catholic heir was born.
- William invaded England with a large Dutch force in November 1688.
- Key defections from James's supporters led to his loss of power.
- James attempted to flee twice; on 23 December 1688, he successfully escaped to France.
Revolution Settlement and Political Change
- The Convention Parliament offered the crown to William and Mary as joint monarchs in February 1689.
- The Declaration of Rights (later the Bill of Rights) limited some royal powers and emphasized parliamentary consent for taxation and law.
- Real limitations on royal authority developed gradually, with the 1694 Triennial Act requiring regular parliaments.
- The 1689 Toleration Act allowed Protestant, but not Catholic, religious freedoms.
Consequences of the Glorious Revolution
- Parliament gained control over taxation, succession, appointments, and military decisions.
- William’s wars led to the growth of financial institutions like the Bank of England (1694) and greater parliamentary oversight.
- In Ireland and Scotland, the revolution was divisive and often violent, resulting in Protestant dominance in Ireland.
- The revolution did not establish protected constitutional law, and long-term parliamentary oligarchy emerged.
- The end of the Royal African Company’s monopoly in 1698 expanded the slave trade.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Glorious Revolution — The overthrow of James II in 1688–89 in favor of William and Mary.
- Popery — Pejorative term for Catholicism, associated with conspiracy fears.
- Exclusion Crisis — Parliamentary attempt (1678–1681) to prevent Catholic James from becoming king.
- Declaration of Rights/Bill of Rights — Legal statement limiting monarchy and affirming parliamentary rights.
- Toleration Act (1689) — Law granting Protestant groups freedom of worship.
- Triennial Act (1694) — Required parliamentary elections every three years.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review and summarize the constitutional principles affirmed in the Bill of Rights.
- Read more on the impact of the Glorious Revolution in Ireland and Scotland.
- Prepare to discuss the long-term effects of the revolution on British government and society.