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James I
Queen Elizabeth I dies, and James VI of Scotland becomes James I of England, uniting the crowns of England and Scotland. -
Gunpowder Plot
The Gunpowder Plot, a Roman Catholic conspiracy to blow up Parliament and the King, is foiled on November 5th. -
Power
James I and his son, Charles II, uphold the divine right of kings, leading to conflicts with Parliament over constitutional limitations on royal power. -
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Civil War
The English Civil War erupts between Royalists (Cavaliers) and Parliamentarians (Roundheads). The conflict ends with the execution of King Charles I, and the establishment of the Commonwealth, a republic ruled by Oliver Cromwell. -
Lord Protector
Cromwell dissolves Parliament, becoming Lord Protector and assuming almost dictatorial powers. -
Monarchy
The Monarchy is restored, and Charles II becomes king after years of exile in France. -
Royal Society
The Royal Society is founded to promote experimental science. -
Plague
Bubonic plague strikes England. -
Great Fire
The Great Fire of London devastates the city. -
Bill of Rights
The Glorious Revolution sees James II deposed in favor of his Protestant daughter Mary and her husband William D'Orange. The Bill of Rights is signed, establishing a constitutional monarchy. -
Act of Settlement
The Act of Settlement is passed to ensure a Protestant succession to the English throne and exclude Roman Catholics. -
Queen Anne
Queen Anne, the last Stuart monarch, dies without heirs, leading to the Hanoverian succession with the ascension of George I.