The Glorious Revolution – 1688
In 1688, a pivotal event reshaped the British monarchy and set the stage for modern constitutional governance: the Glorious Revolution.
Background:
King James II, a Catholic monarch, faced increasing opposition due to his attempts to promote Catholicism in a predominantly Protestant England. His policies alienated many, including members of Parliament and the Anglican Church.
The Revolution:
• Concerned about James’s actions, a group of English nobles invited William of Orange, James’s Protestant son-in-law, to intervene.
• In November 1688, William landed in England with a Dutch fleet.
• James II fled to France, effectively abdicating the throne.
Aftermath:
• Parliament declared that James had abdicated and offered the crown jointly to William III and Mary II, James’s Protestant daughter.
• The Bill of Rights 1689 was enacted, limiting the powers of the monarchy and affirming the rights of Parliament and individuals. 
The Glorious Revolution established a constitutional monarchy, ensuring that the monarchy could not rule without Parliament’s consent. It laid the foundation for the democratic principles that underpin the British political system today.
