Impact of Empire - Introduction Flashcards
How many ships were in the Dutch naval fleet when it set off from the Netherlands for the Glorious Revolution?
The Dutch naval fleet comprised 463 ships when it set off from the Netherlands.
Describe the scene at the jetty as the fleet prepared to depart for the Glorious Revolution
The jetty was crowded with people and luggage, getting ready to board small boats that would take them to the warships.
Who led the Glorious Revolution?
William, Prince of Orange, who was soon to become king of England.
When did William’s fleet finally sail and where did it reach four days later?
William’s fleet finally sailed on 1 November and reached Brixham in Devon four days later.
How did the size of William’s invasion force compare to historical events such as the Spanish Armada and the Norman invasion?
William’s invasion force was massive, far bigger than the Spanish Armada in 1588 and probably bigger than the Norman invasion of 1066.
How was William received upon his arrival in England?
William was warmly welcomed by English members of parliament who had invited him to come and seize power
What changes were occurring in England that were enriching certain individuals before the Glorious Revolution?
England was experiencing changes that were enriching some people, particularly a growing class of merchants, bankers, and private businessmen represented in parliament.
What events in the 1640s led to the increasing power of merchants and businessmen in England?
The Wars of the Three Kingdoms, also known as the Civil Wars, in the 1640s contributed to the shift in power towards merchants, bankers, and private businessmen, who became increasingly influential in parliament
What were some of the economic factors contributing to England’s wealth during this period?
Trade with Asia was growing, and sugar and tobacco plantations in the Americas, worked by enslaved Africans and indentured servants from the British Isles, were contributing to England’s wealth.
Describe James II’s ambitions for England’s governance
James II sought to establish an absolute monarchy in England, aiming to control all trade and business, excluding those merchants who believed in more individual freedom, albeit only for wealthy men.
What was the concern regarding James ll’s lineage and its impact on England’s future?
Concerns arose when James Il’s wife gave birth to a baby boy in 1688, signaling a potential line of Catholic kings if James remained on the throne.
Who emerged as a suitable candidate to challenge James Il’s rule, and why?
William of Orange, a Dutch prince, emerged as a suitable candidate because he was Protestant, at war with the French king Louis XIV, and married to James’s daughter Mary.
What were some of William of Orange’s qualities that made him an appealing choice for those seeking to challenge James Il’s rule?
William of Orange was an effective military leader and political operator, and his rule was seen as potentially allowing the spread of an empire based on private business and trade, aligning with the interests of powerful figures in parliament.
What prompted James II to send an army to face William of Orange?
James II sent an army to confront William of Orange, whose troops were advancing through the west of England and receiving welcome in many towns.
What were the consequences of William of Orange’s victories in battles against James II’s forces?
As William of Orange won several small battles, James II’s supporters began to desert him, leading to his flight to France in December 1688.
