The Glorious Revolution was a period in British history from 1688 to 1689 when King James II (VII of Scotland) was overthrown by a coalition of Parliamentarians, led by William III of Orange and his wife, Mary, James's eldest daughter. The conflict ended with the signing of the Bill of Rights, which limited the power of the monarchy and established the supremacy of Parliament.
Religious and Political Toleration
The revolution also brought about a greater degree of religious and political toleration. Under James II, Catholics had been persecuted and excluded from public office. However, the Bill of Rights granted freedom of worship to all Protestant denominations, and it also allowed Catholics to hold public office if they took an oath of allegiance to the crown.
Constitutional Monarchy
The Glorious Revolution marked the beginning of a constitutional monarchy in Britain. The Bill of Rights established a number of important principles, including the supremacy of Parliament, the right to free speech, and the right to a fair trial. These principles have since become fundamental to the British constitution.
The establishment of the Whig Party
The events of the Glorious Revolution led to the formation of the Whig Party, which was in favour of a limited monarchy and parliamentary supremacy.
The Tory Party, which was in favour of a strong monarchy and the established church.