William of Orange dethroned the House of Stuart.
The Glorious Revolution of 1688
The significant event that led to the dethronement of the Stuart monarchy was the Glorious Revolution in 1688. This period marked a fundamental shift in British history, primarily driven by concerns over religious succession and parliamentary power.
William of Orange's Invasion
In 1688, William of Orange, then Stadtholder of the Dutch Republic, launched an invasion of England. This bold action directly led to the collapse of the reign of the Stuart monarch.
The Fall of King James VII
The invasion resulted in the dethronement of Catholic King James VII (also known as James II of England). Alongside his infant son, King James VII was forced into exile in France, effectively ending his rule and the direct line of the Stuart succession on the throne.
The Ascent of William and Mary
Following the successful invasion and the exile of James VII, William of Orange, along with his wife Mary—who was King James VII's daughter—took the Crown. They became the Protestant monarchs of Scotland, England, and Ireland, solidifying a new era of Protestant rule.
Key Figures in the Transition
The primary figures involved in this historical transition include:
- William of Orange: The Dutch leader who spearheaded the invasion and became King William III.
- King James VII (James II): The last Stuart king to rule before his overthrow and exile.
- Mary II: James VII's daughter, who ascended to the throne as queen alongside her husband, William III, ensuring a Protestant succession.
