Stuart Britain and the Crisis of Monarchy, 1603–1702

This topic covers the tumultuous period from the accession of James I in 1603 to the death of William III in 1702, a century that saw the English monarchy challenged, overthrown, and restored. It examines the breakdown of the relationship between crown and parliament, the causes and consequences of the English Civil War, the Interregnum under Oliver Cromwell, and the eventual settlement of the Glorious Revolution. Students will explore key themes such as divine right, constitutional conflict, religious division, and the emergence of political parties.

Understanding this period is crucial because it shaped modern British political institutions, including the supremacy of Parliament, the rule of law, and the concept of a limited monarchy. The crisis of monarchy in the 17th century directly influenced the development of constitutional government and the Bill of Rights (1689). For AQA A-Level, this topic requires students to analyse change and continuity, evaluate interpretations, and use primary sources effectively.

The period is divided into key phases: the early Stuarts (James I and Charles I), the Civil War and Interregnum, the Restoration (Charles II), and the Glorious Revolution (James II and William III). Students must understand the interplay of political, religious, economic, and social factors that drove events, as well as the roles of key individuals such as Laud, Pym, Cromwell, and Shaftesbury.