Which revolution led to the establishment of a constitutional monarchy in England?

Study for the OSAT World History/Geography Test. Prepare with detailed questions, flashcards, and enlightening explanations. Master your exam effortlessly!

The Glorious Revolution was pivotal in leading to the establishment of a constitutional monarchy in England. This revolution occurred in 1688 when William of Orange took the throne from King James II, who was ousted due to his attempts to assert royal prerogative and Catholic influence, which alarmed Parliament and many Protestant subjects. The Glorious Revolution resulted not only in the replacement of James II but also in the creation of a constitutional framework that limited the powers of the monarchy and enhanced those of Parliament.

The significance of this revolution lies in the Bill of Rights, enacted in 1689, which laid down the principles of parliamentary sovereignty and individual rights, effectively establishing constitutional law. This marked a clear shift from absolute monarchy to a governance structure where royal powers were constrained and Parliament held legislative authority, thereby setting a precedent for modern democracies.

In contrast, the other historical events listed either did not directly lead to a constitutional monarchy or took place in different contexts. The English Civil War involved conflicts primarily over the power of the monarchy but did not settle constitutional arrangements; the American Revolution sought independence from British rule rather than reforming the British monarchy, and the French Revolution aimed at completely overthrowing the monarchy in favor of a republic, not establishing constitutional limits.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy