Study Notes on “The Glorious Revolution: Establishing Parliamentary Sovereignty”

The Glorious Revolution: Establishing Parliamentary Sovereignty

Introduction

The Glorious Revolution of 1688 was a defining moment in European history, not only for England but for the concept of constitutional governance. It marked the end of absolute monarchy and the dawn of parliamentary sovereignty, a shift that would shape the future of democratic systems in Europe. The Revolution, which resulted in the deposition of King James II and the ascension of William of Orange and his wife Mary II to the throne, ushered in an era where Parliament held the ultimate authority over the monarchy.

This module explores the causes, events, and long-term consequences of the Glorious Revolution, analyzing how it changed the political landscape of England and established the foundations for parliamentary democracy. It also delves into the broader implications for European governance and constitutional monarchy.

1. Background to the Glorious Revolution

Before delving into the Revolution itself, it is essential to understand the political and religious environment in England that led to the event. Several factors contributed to the discontent with King James II and set the stage for the Glorious Revolution.

Religious Conflicts

• Catholic-Protestant Tensions: By the late 17th century, England was a predominantly Protestant country, and Catholicism was seen with suspicion and fear. James II’s attempts to restore Catholicism as the state religion alienated much of the population, particularly the Protestants.
• The Birth of a Catholic Heir: The birth of James II’s son in 1688, who was raised as a Catholic, further intensified fears of a Catholic dynasty, which would upset the Protestant establishment in England.

Political Conflicts

• Absolutist Monarchy: James II’s policies were seen as authoritarian. He dissolved Parliament on multiple occasions, ruled without its consent, and attempted to bypass Parliament to impose his will. This angered many in the political elite who viewed these actions as a threat to their power and influence.
• The Power of Parliament: The English monarchy had been in a constant power struggle with Parliament since the 17th century. The English Civil War (1642–1651) and the subsequent execution of King Charles I had already established the idea that the monarchy was not above the law.

The Role of the Dutch

• William of Orange’s Influence: William of Orange, the Dutch Stadtholder, was married to Mary II, the daughter of James II. As a Protestant leader, William had long been an adversary of Catholic absolutism in Europe. The political elite in England, including both Whigs and Tories, viewed him as a preferable alternative to James II.

2. The Glorious Revolution: Key Events

The Glorious Revolution was remarkably bloodless, hence the term “Glorious.” The events unfolded swiftly, and the outcome was transformative for the monarchy and Parliament.

The Invitation to William

• The Immortal Seven: In June 1688, a group of seven prominent English nobles, later referred to as the “Immortal Seven,” sent an invitation to William of Orange to invade England and overthrow James II. This group included leading Whigs and Tories who feared that the monarchy would become entirely Catholic and absolutist.

William’s Invasion

• Landing in England: In November 1688, William of Orange landed in Torbay with an army of around 15,000 men. His forces were well-organized and swiftly marched towards London. As William’s forces advanced, James II’s supporters began to desert him.
• The Flight of James II: Facing dwindling support, James II fled to France in December 1688, without offering significant resistance. His flight marked the end of his reign, and the monarchy was left in a state of uncertainty.

The Convention Parliament

• Declaration of William and Mary: Following James II’s abdication, William and Mary were offered the throne by Parliament, but they were required to accept certain conditions before they could be crowned. This marked the beginning of a new constitutional order.
• The Bill of Rights: In 1689, the English Bill of Rights was passed by Parliament, formally limiting the powers of the monarchy and reaffirming the rights of Parliament. This was the culmination of the Glorious Revolution and its most significant legal and constitutional outcome.

3. The English Bill of Rights and Its Importance

One of the most significant outcomes of the Glorious Revolution was the passage of the English Bill of Rights in 1689. This document was a crucial step in the evolution of parliamentary sovereignty.

Key Provisions of the Bill of Rights

• Parliamentary Supremacy: The Bill of Rights firmly established that Parliament had the ultimate authority over the monarchy. It stipulated that the monarch could not suspend or dispense with laws passed by Parliament, levy taxes, or maintain a standing army without the consent of Parliament.
• Limits on Royal Power: The Bill restricted the monarchy’s ability to interfere with parliamentary elections, establishing that elections must be free from royal influence. It also prohibited the monarch from being a Roman Catholic and ensured that any monarch must be Protestant.
• Civil Liberties: The Bill also affirmed certain civil rights for English citizens, such as the right to petition the monarch, the right to bear arms (for Protestants), and protection against cruel and unusual punishment.

Parliamentary Sovereignty

• The English Bill of Rights is often seen as one of the most significant milestones in the establishment of parliamentary sovereignty. The Revolution and the Bill cemented the idea that the English monarch ruled in partnership with Parliament and was subject to the law, rather than above it.

4. Long-Term Consequences of the Glorious Revolution

The Glorious Revolution had far-reaching consequences for the governance of England, Europe, and the development of modern constitutional monarchies.

Political Impact on England

• End of Absolute Monarchy: The Glorious Revolution marked the end of absolute monarchy in England. The monarchy would never again hold unchecked power, as future monarchs were required to govern with Parliament’s consent.
• Rise of Parliamentary Democracy: The Revolution laid the groundwork for a parliamentary system of government. Over the next centuries, the role of Parliament would continue to expand, while the monarchy would gradually become more ceremonial.
• Foundation for the Modern State: The Glorious Revolution set a precedent for the relationship between the state and its citizens, laying the foundations for future democratic and constitutional developments in Europe and beyond.

Influence on Europe

• Spread of Constitutionalism: The Glorious Revolution influenced other European countries, particularly those with absolute monarchies like France and Spain. The idea of constitutional monarchy, where the monarch’s powers are limited by a constitution or laws, became a model for other European nations.
• Tensions with France: The Revolution also had a significant impact on England’s relationship with France. James II’s support from King Louis XIV of France further deepened the rivalry between the two nations, which would culminate in the War of the Spanish Succession.

Impact on the American Colonies

• Impact on Colonial Governance: The Glorious Revolution had a ripple effect on English colonies in North America, particularly those in New England. Colonists, many of whom were Protestant, saw the Revolution as a victory for their religious and political rights. The principles of the Bill of Rights were later mirrored in the American Bill of Rights.

5. The Legacy of the Glorious Revolution

The Glorious Revolution, despite being a relatively peaceful and swift event, left an indelible mark on the history of England and Europe. Its legacy is felt even in modern political systems around the world.

Constitutional Monarchy

• The Glorious Revolution was a critical moment in the evolution of constitutional monarchy. The Revolution ensured that the monarch’s powers would be constitutionally defined and limited by law, and that Parliament would become the supreme legislative authority.

Rise of Parliamentary Sovereignty

• The Glorious Revolution cemented the idea of parliamentary sovereignty, which continues to influence the British political system. The principle that Parliament has supreme authority in making laws and controlling government finances remains central to British democracy.

Model for Future Revolutions

• The Glorious Revolution served as a model for later revolutions, including the American Revolution and the French Revolution. It demonstrated that a monarch could be overthrown without violent conflict and that governance could be based on the rule of law and popular consent.

Conclusion

The Glorious Revolution of 1688 was a crucial turning point in European history. It not only resulted in the deposition of King James II but also established the principle of parliamentary sovereignty, which continues to shape political systems around the world. Through the English Bill of Rights, the Revolution ensured that the monarchy could no longer govern without the consent of Parliament, setting the stage for the development of constitutional monarchy and democratic governance in England and beyond. The ideas of constitutionalism and the protection of individual rights that emerged from the Glorious Revolution were pivotal in the shaping of modern political systems and continue to influence political thought to this day.

This comprehensive study module provides an in-depth exploration of the Glorious Revolution, emphasizing its significance in the establishment of parliamentary sovereignty, the rise of constitutional monarchy, and the lasting political impacts on both England and the world.