key term - Mary II

Definition

Mary II was a co-sovereign of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1689 until her death in 1694, known for her role in the Glorious Revolution. Her reign marked a significant shift in power dynamics between the monarchy and Parliament, reflecting the growing resistance to absolute monarchy and European expansionism during this time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mary II was the daughter of James II and Anne Hyde and was raised as a Protestant in a time of religious turmoil.
2. She became queen alongside her husband William III after they successfully invaded England, leading to the ousting of her father, James II.
3. During her reign, Mary II faced challenges such as ongoing conflicts with France and issues related to the Protestant-Catholic divide in England.
4. Mary II is known for supporting the establishment of a constitutional monarchy, which curtailed royal powers and increased parliamentary authority.
5. Her death from smallpox at a young age in 1694 left William III to rule alone, marking a shift in governance without her influence.

Review Questions

• How did Mary II's ascension to the throne influence the balance of power between monarchy and Parliament?
  • Mary II's ascension was pivotal in shifting the balance of power towards Parliament. Her joint rule with William III following the Glorious Revolution established the principle that the monarchy could be challenged by Parliament. This event signified the diminishing power of absolute monarchy in England and led to constitutional changes that ensured greater legislative authority for Parliament.
• Discuss the impact of Mary II's reign on religious tensions in England during the late 17th century.
  • Mary II's reign occurred during a period marked by intense religious conflict between Catholics and Protestants. As a Protestant queen, she supported Protestant interests and policies, contributing to tensions with Catholic factions. The overthrow of her Catholic father, James II, represented not only a political shift but also reinforced Protestant dominance, leading to continued strife between these religious groups throughout her reign.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of Mary II's joint rule with William III on European political dynamics.
  • The joint rule of Mary II and William III had significant long-term consequences for European politics by setting a precedent for constitutional monarchy. Their governance highlighted the growing resistance against absolute rule and emphasized parliamentary supremacy. This transformation influenced other nations in Europe as it inspired movements toward similar governmental structures, ultimately contributing to broader discussions about governance, rights, and individual liberties across the continent.

Related terms

Glorious Revolution:

The political upheaval in 1688 that resulted in the overthrow of King James II and the establishment of Mary II and her husband William III as joint monarchs.

Constitutional Monarchy:

A form of government in which a monarch shares power with a constitutionally organized government, limiting their powers and establishing a system of checks and balances.

William III: The husband of Mary II, who ruled alongside her and played a crucial role in the Glorious Revolution, solidifying Protestant control over England.