The marriage between Mary II of England and William of Orange was a crucial political alliance in the late 17th century. This union was not merely a romantic one; it was orchestrated within the context of the complex political landscape of Europe, which was struggling with issues of religious conflict and power dynamics. Mary, the daughter of King James II, and William, a key figure in opposing Catholic monarchy, represented the Protestant cause at a time when England was embroiled in tensions between Catholics and Protestants.

The couple exchanged vows at St. James's Palace in London, where not only their personal lives intertwined but also their political destinies. This marriage was part of a broader strategy to bolster Protestantism in England and counter the influence of Catholicism, which was perceived as a threat to the Protestant establishment. The alliance offered the promise of military support against France and strengthened ties with the Dutch Republic, signaling a shift towards a more unified front against common adversaries.

In 1688, this union became even more significant when William invaded England in what would be known as the Glorious Revolution, leading to the ousting of James II. Mary and William ascended the throne as joint monarchs, marking the first time England was ruled by a king and queen together. This pivotal moment set a precedent for constitutional monarchy in England and established parliamentary governance as a powerful institution.