Thoughts and Reflections on England’s Glorious Revolution (1688-1689)

 The Glorious Revolution 1688-1689, by Steven Pincus,  I thought was very well written. Pincus provides tremendous evidence, and for the historian is very helpful in tracing the footsteps of time back to the actual event.

In this case, the event was the English Revolution of 1688-1689, or the removal of James the II, from the crown, and placing William and Mary, on the seat of England instead. Now, the difference in this revolution, was that James II fled England, and did not have his head cut off, as was the case with Charles I.

Also, during this time, was incredible growth within England’s infrastructure and economy. Part colonialist enslavement and part industrial and factory work. The East India Trade Company was a global enterprise. Yet, under William and Mary, the East India Company would become reorganized (p.25).

Furthermore, William was more of a countryman, considered on the outside of England, whereas Mary, was from England and could secure the people’s attention and affection. In other words, the pair was seen as a well-balanced couple, in the eyes of the people.

William for his military prowess and Mary for her bloodline and good English nature.

Also, Pincus makes it known, that this is not a religious revolution, rather a change of power, which had ramifications in parliament. Interestingly, William and Mary balanced the Whigs and Torries, creating and passing many legislative motions, which Pincus has so eloquently displayed for his reader, in his research.

In closing, when reading Pincus, I really felt the anxiety and complexities of the people during the Glorious Revolution (1688-1689), through the documents he has provided.  Also, and lastly the Glorious Revolution, was not as bloodless as appeared, and yet still managed to bring great power to the hands of parliament, while still enforcing a new monarchy, which governed its people and held heavy input on legislation.