Charles II: Royal Politician

Charles II's book "The Conditions Affecting Government and Political Activity" was first published in 1987. It argues that the conditions affecting government and political activity changed constantly through the reign, creating new situations and problems for the restored monarch and his servants. The pressures from the parliament, Church, foreign states, and organized public opinion were the most important influence on Charles, making him concentrate on short-term tactics and engage in complex manoeuvring to outwit the leaders of the first two political parties. The book charts Charles' attitudes and involvement in administration and politics from his exile through the Restoration, his relationships with Clarendon, Buckingham, and Danby, the 'Cabal of 1668-73, the mixed administration from 1679, and the contest with the Whigs to his personal rule during the last four years of his reign. It will be of interest to students of history and literature.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

First published in 1987, Charles II delves into the intricate dynamics of government and political activity during his reign, highlighting the constant evolution of circumstances that presented new challenges and complexities for the restored monarch and his loyal servants. The pressures exerted upon Charles and his ministers came from various sources, including the parliament, the Church, foreign states, and organized public opinion. These pressures were distinct from those faced by previous rulers, exerting a profound influence on his actions and strategies. Consequently, Charles became focused on short-term tactics, engaging in intricate maneuvers to outmaneuver the leaders of the first two political parties, the Whigs and his own Tory auxiliaries.

The conditions affecting government underwent significant fluctuations throughout Charles's reign. Professor Jones meticulously charts the shifting attitudes and the depth of Charles's involvement in administration and politics, spanning from his exile through the Restoration, his relationships with key figures such as Clarendon, Buckingham, and Danby, the formation of the "Cabal of 1668-73," the mixed administration from 1679, and the intense rivalry with the Whigs leading up to his personal rule during the final four years of his reign. This comprehensive book holds immense interest for students of history and literature, offering valuable insights into the complex tapestry of Charles II's reign.

Weight: 600g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032516936