The Glorious Revolution, also known as the Bloodless Revolution or the Revolution of 1688, took place in England from 1688 to 1689.
It marked the deposition of King James II and the ascension of his daughter Mary II and her husband, William III of Orange.
The event was prompted by religious and political conflicts, primarily due to James II's Roman Catholicism and policies.
Key Figures
James II: The Catholic King of England whose policies led to widespread dissatisfaction.
William of Orange: Protestant, married to James's daughter Mary, invited to England to address grievances.
Mary II: James II's Protestant daughter and heir, joint ruler with William III.
John Churchill and Anne: Key supporters of William, including Churchill, a prominent military leader.
Causes
James II's overt Catholicism and policies alienated non-Catholics.
Birth of a Catholic heir increased fears of continued Catholic rule.
Invitation to William of Orange by prominent Englishmen to invade and address grievances.
Major Events
Invitation to William: Seven Englishmen invited William of Orange to invade England.
James II's Flight: Support for James dwindled rapidly; he fled to France in December 1688.
William and Mary Crowned: In April 1689, they were crowned as joint rulers after James was deemed to have abdicated.
Significance
Established Parliament as the ruling power, shifting from absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy.
The Bill of Rights of 1689 emerged from the Declaration of Rights William and Mary accepted, setting precedents like barring Catholics from the throne, and asserting Parliamentary power over monarchy.
Supported John Locke's ideas of government as a social contract.
Impact
Strengthened the position of Parliament in the English Constitution.
Asserted the Protestant succession to the English throne, permanently altering the religious landscape of English governance.
Related Legislation
Bill of Rights (1689): Limited the powers of the crown and laid out certain rights of Parliament and rules for the succession of the throne.
Toleration Act (1689): Provided freedom of worship to Nonconformists, though not to Catholics.
Conclusion
The Glorious Revolution was a pivotal moment in English history, leading to a constitutional monarchy and setting the stage for modern democratic governance.
It is viewed as a triumph for constitutionalism and parliamentary democracy over absolutism.