Home > Mary Evans Prints Online > New Images August 2021
Parliament declares the British throne vacant, 1688
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Parliament declares the British throne vacant, 1688
Parliament declares the British throne vacant after the flight of James II in 1688.
1688
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23274706
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1680s 1688 Decision Decisions Declaration Declares Parliament Problem Succession Throne Vacant Vacancy
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this historic moment captured in the late 17th century, the British Parliament gathers in the hallowed halls of Westminster to declare the throne vacant, marking the end of the reign of King James II and the beginning of a new era in British history. The year was 1688, and the political climate of the realm was fraught with tension and uncertainty. King James II, a devout Catholic, had long been a source of unease for the predominantly Protestant population of England. His attempts to impose religious tolerance and his perceived favoritism towards Catholics had fueled widespread discontent. When he issued a decree in 1687, granting religious freedom to Catholics, many saw it as the final straw. In response, a group of disgruntled nobles, led by the Duke of Monmouth and the Earl of Danby, invited Prince William of Orange, the Protestant husband of James's daughter Mary, to invade England and claim the throne. James, sensing the imminent threat to his rule, fled to France in late 1688, leaving his young son, James Francis Edward, behind. With James in exile, the Parliament, fearing a power vacuum, convened to declare the throne vacant and invite William and Mary to rule as joint monarchs. This momentous decision, captured in the photograph, marked the Glorious Revolution, a pivotal event in British history that would shape the country's political landscape for centuries to come. The Parliament's declaration of the vacant throne signaled the end of the Stuart dynasty and the beginning of the House of Hanover. It also paved the way for the establishment of the Bill of Rights in 1689, which enshrined the supremacy of Parliament over the monarch and protected the rights of English subjects. This photograph, a poignant reminder of a pivotal moment in history, stands as a testament to the enduring power of the British Parliament and its ability to shape the course of the nation.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
