James II

Definition

James II was a 17th-century monarch who ruled England, Scotland (as James VII), and Ireland from 1685 until he was deposed in the Glorious Revolution of 1688. His reign is noted for his attempts to reinstitute Catholic dominance in a predominantly Protestant England, which played a significant role in the development of modern forms of liberalism by highlighting the importance of religious tolerance and constitutional government.

Related terms

Glorious Revolution: The event in 1688 where James II was overthrown by Parliament with the help of William III and Mary II, leading to the establishment of constitutional monarchy in England.

Absolutism:

A form of government where the ruler has absolute power over the state, unchecked by any constitutional limits; a practice attempted but ultimately failed by James II in England.

Constitutional Monarchy:

A system of government where a monarch acts as head of state within the parameters of a constitution, balancing monarchy with more democratic elements; this became more solidified in England after James II's deposition