What are the causes and effects of the Glorious Revolution?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glorious_Revolution
You'll find your answers in that article. Note that the legacy part tells about the effects.
The Glorious Revolution refers to the events that took place in England and Scotland in 1688-1689, when King James II was overthrown and replaced by William III and Mary II. The causes and effects of the Glorious Revolution can be understood by examining the political, religious, and social context of the time.
Causes of the Glorious Revolution:
1. Religious Conflict: James II was a Roman Catholic, and his attempts to promote Catholicism in a predominantly Protestant country led to tensions and fears among the Protestant population. Many viewed his rule as a threat to the liberties and rights of Protestants.
2. Constitutional Crisis: James II attempted to consolidate his power and ruled without consulting Parliament, bypassing their authority. This created a constitutional crisis and raised concerns about the balance of power between the king and Parliament.
3. Birth of Protestants: James II's second wife gave birth to a Catholic heir, which heightened fears of a Catholic dynasty and a return to absolute monarchy. This led to a coalition of Protestants who sought to prevent the succession of a Catholic monarch.
Effects of the Glorious Revolution:
1. Constitutional Changes: The Glorious Revolution resulted in a significant shift in power from the king to Parliament. The Bill of Rights was passed in 1689, which established parliamentary sovereignty, limited the powers of the monarchy, and guaranteed certain rights to the people.
2. Protestant Ascendancy: The Glorious Revolution solidified Protestant dominance in England and Scotland. William III and Mary II, both Protestants, were invited to rule and their reign marked the end of the divine right of kings and the beginning of a constitutional monarchy.
3. Influence on Future Revolutions: The Glorious Revolution served as a model for future revolutions, such as the American and French Revolutions. The concept of people overthrowing a despotic ruler and establishing a constitutional government based on popular sovereignty gained prominence.
To learn more about the causes and effects of the Glorious Revolution, you can consult historical books, academic articles, or online resources dedicated to this topic. These sources will provide in-depth analysis and differing perspectives on specific events and historical context.