James II and the First Modern Revolution: The End of Absolute Monarchy

James II ascended to the English throne in February 1685, following his brother Charles II. James was an unpopular ruler due to his flawed character and attempts to promote Catholicism, which led to the Glorious Revolution. This book explores how Anglicanism and Jacobitism collided, leading to James's downfall and the ascension of William and Mary to the throne, bringing stability to England.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 216 pages
\n Publication date: 18 October 2021
\n Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd
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In February 1685, James II ascended to the English throne, succeeding his brother Charles II. His popularity had experienced a rollercoaster ride during his brother's reign. Spanning a mere forty years, this period witnessed the execution of their father, Charles I, the proclamation of a republic, and the subsequent restoration of the monarchy. Despite the uncertain times, there were indications of stability. However, James, a deeply flawed character, lacked his brother's pragmatism. Stubborn, arrogant, and oscillating between piety and debauchery, he garnered little affection from those who knew him intimately. Within a mere three years, his relentless efforts to promote Catholicism in a nation predominantly rooted in Protestantism had strained the patience of his subjects, the aristocracy, and the church, who jointly appealed to William, Prince of Orange, James's nephew and son-in-law, to intervene and safeguard English liberties. James abdicated his throne, triggering the Glorious Revolution. This remarkable event unfolded largely without significant bloodshed.

This book delves into the intricate collision of Anglicanism and Jacobitism, exploring how a monarch swiftly forfeited the trust and goodwill of his people. Through his own foolish actions, James inadvertently aided the seamless victory of William and Mary, James's own daughter, who ascended to the throne and brought a period of calm to a nation that had recently endured civil war and years of upheaval.

\n Weight: 530g\n
Dimension: 241 x 164 x 30 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781399001403\n \n