James II Disposes of the Great Seal
December 11th, 1688
December 11th, 1688
How Long Ago?
336 years, 3 months, 4 days ago
Location
London, England
Category
Politics & Government
People
- William of Orange
- James II of England
Links & References
Tags
James II Disposes of the Great Seal
In a desperate attempt to escape the advancing forces challenging his rule, King James II of England threw the Great Seal of the Realm into the River Thames. This act symbolized the collapse of his authority and the shift of power as William of Orange's forces advanced to capture the throne. The Great Seal represented the monarchy's power and legitimacy, making its disposal a significant event during this turbulent period in British history.
James II faced opposition to his Catholic rule.
William of Orange was invited to invade England.
The Great Seal symbolized monarchical authority.
Throwing it marked a shift toward Constitutional Monarchy.
What Happened?
King James II of England faced growing opposition to his rule, which was characterized by religious tension and concerns over his Catholic faith in a predominantly Protestant nation. As dissent grew, particularly among Parliament and influential political factions, James's grip on power weakened. The arrival of William of Orange, who was invited by prominent Whigs and Tories to invade England, marked a turning point. On the eve of William's landing, James attempted to flee to France to seek asylum and prevent further conflict. In a symbolic gesture of despair and defeat, he threw the Great Seal of the Realm into the River Thames, an act showing the dissolution of his authority. The loss of the Great Seal, which had been used to authorize royal decrees and legal documents, was not just an escape measure but signified the end of his reign and the passing of legitimacy from James II to William III. This act encapsulated the struggles of the time and the transition towards constitutional monarchy and the eventual establishment of the Bill of Rights in England.
Why Does it Matter?
The Great Seal's disposal by James II during his attempted flight to France illustrates a critical moment in the Glorious Revolution, signifying the breakdown of royal authority and the transition of power from a monarch to a parliamentary system. This dramatic renunciation helped set the stage for constitutional changes, including the eventual establishment of joint monarchy under William and Mary, and the decline of absolute monarchy in England.
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