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James II in power
Ruled between 1688 and 1689 until he was replaced by William and Mary. Son of Charles I. Led some colonial ventures and ran the royal navy for a while. -
Period: to
Interregnum
After the execution of Charles I, the kingdom entered a period "between rulers," during which there were a series of political experiments. England wasn't sure how they wanted to run their country, but they knew that the way it had been run wasn't appropriate anymore. This period was the experimental age of constitutional monarchy before the political theory was actually put into real practice. -
Execution of Charles I
Charles I was executed after being accused of tyranny and treachery towards England. The parliamentarian court found him guilty of tyranny and attempting to overthrow the liberties of the people. He was executed in front of the Banqueting House and hundreds of people watched. This execution is largely considered the removal of the last major obstacle to constitutional monarchy. -
British Civil Wars
Conflicts between England, Scotland, and Ireland on religious and political basis. Catholics vs. Protestants was the main religious argument, and the want for religious tolerance from one side and religious supremacy from the other was the central issue. Led to the abolition of the monarchy, which was the first step to the establishment of a constitutional monarchy and a revolutionary period for English governance. -
The Great Plague
The plague, which killed thousands of people, along with the Great Fire of London, were both socially perceived as punishments from God for the corruption of King Charles II. The people saw him as too "Popish," wanting too much power and not allowing enough liberties to the people. This unfair rule, they believed, had brought upon the Plague to England as punishment. This was the beginning of public dislike towards Charles II and the eventual transfer of power. -
The Glorious Revolution
Sparked by religious and political motives; the English didn't like how much power King James II had and the Catholic nature of his rule - nor the way he used religion to gain political power. The King and the Parliament were as divided as the Catholics and Protestants of England. -
English Bill of Rights
Series of guidelines for William and Mary of Orange as they were taking power of the country. Outlined basic liberties granted to citizenships and was meant to protect against political absolutism. Highly influenced the future American Bill of Rights with certain ideas like right to bear arms and free speech.