Constitutional 3 pptx

Summary

The transcript covers the restoration of the English monarchy in 1660, focusing on Charles II's reign, known for its leniency and his love of theater, earning him the nickname 'The Merry Monarch.' It delves into religious tensions, the Test Act, and the eventual succession crisis with Charles’ brother, James II, a Catholic. The Glorious Revolution of 1688 followed, leading to William and Mary's rule and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy. The long-term political impacts, such as the rise of modern political parties and lasting religious divisions, are also discussed.

Takeaways

• 😀 The English Restoration began in 1660, with Charles II returning as the 'Merry Monarch' after the Cromwell-led Commonwealth period.
• 🎄 The public was eager for the monarchy's return, partly due to a desire for the return of holidays and enjoyment, including Christmas.
• ⚖️ Charles II restored stability and avoided revenge, only punishing those who signed his father's death warrant.
• 😇 Religious tensions remained high, leading to the Test Act of 1661, which barred Catholics and Puritans from holding public office.
• 📜 The Titus Oates conspiracy, known as the Popish Plot, reflected the paranoia about Catholics, even though it was largely fabricated.
• 👑 Charles II had no legitimate children, making his Catholic brother James the heir, leading to the Exclusion Crisis of 1679.
• 🚩 The political division during this time led to the emergence of two factions: the Tories (pro-monarchy) and the Whigs (pro-parliament).
• 🤝 The Glorious Revolution of 1688 resulted in James II's abdication and the ascension of William of Orange and Mary, marking a shift toward constitutional monarchy.
• 📜 The English Bill of Rights established parliamentary supremacy, guaranteeing Parliament’s rights to regular meetings, free elections, and control over taxation.
• 🔒 The standing army could only exist with parliamentary consent, a practice that continues in Britain today.

Q & A

What was the significance of the restoration of the monarchy in 1660?

The restoration of the monarchy in 1660 marked the end of the Commonwealth and Cromwell's strict Puritan rule. It brought Charles II to power, a period known for restoring Christmas and more festive, relaxed public life, earning Charles the nickname 'the merry monarch.'

What was the Test Act of 1661, and why was it introduced?

The Test Act of 1661 was introduced to exclude Catholics and Puritans from holding public office by requiring individuals to take Anglican communion. It reflected the strong religious tensions of the time and the Anglican desire to prevent non-Anglicans from gaining power.

What was the 'Popeish Plot,' and how did it relate to religious paranoia in England?

The 'Popeish Plot' was a conspiracy theory that falsely claimed Catholics were planning to take over the government. Although unfounded, it highlighted the intense religious paranoia of the time, particularly against Catholics.

Why did Charles II refuse to divorce Queen Catherine, despite pressure to do so?

Although Charles II had no legitimate children with Queen Catherine, he refused to divorce her, remaining loyal in this one respect despite his many affairs. His refusal prevented the royal line from continuing through him, leaving his Catholic brother James as his successor.

Who were the Tories and Whigs, and how did they form?

The Tories were supporters of a strong monarchy and tradition, while the Whigs opposed absolutism and favored parliamentary control. These factions formed during the exclusion crisis over whether James, a Catholic, should succeed Charles II, eventually evolving into modern political parties.

Why was James II’s Catholicism a major issue for the English public?

James II's Catholicism was problematic because England had not had a Catholic monarch since Queen Mary I. His promotion of Catholics to high positions and fears of a Catholic dynasty sparked widespread opposition, contributing to the Glorious Revolution.

What was the significance of the Glorious Revolution of 1688?

The Glorious Revolution of 1688 saw the overthrow of James II and the ascension of William and Mary to the throne. It marked a shift to constitutional monarchy, limiting royal power and establishing Parliament’s authority, which was codified in the Bill of Rights.

What is the historical importance of the Bill of Rights enacted after the Glorious Revolution?

The Bill of Rights, enacted after the Glorious Revolution, established Parliament’s rights in relation to the monarchy, including regular meetings, free speech, and control over taxes. It laid the foundation for modern constitutional monarchy in England.

How did the battle of the Boyne in 1690 impact James II’s chances of reclaiming the throne?

The Battle of the Boyne in 1690 saw William III defeat James II's forces, effectively ending James’s hopes of regaining the English throne. It solidified Protestant rule and is still remembered today, especially in Northern Ireland, where it fuels ongoing religious tensions.

What was the Act of Union in 1707, and why did it occur?

The Act of Union in 1707 united Scotland and England into a single entity, the United Kingdom of Great Britain. It was largely motivated by Scotland’s financial difficulties, with the English agreeing to pay off Scottish debts in exchange for political union.