Přednášky zápisky

1660 – 1688 The Restoration

Charles II – he spend 11 years abroad, he promised some things and then did others. He intimidated the members of the parliament by killing Oliver’s son. Some cultural changes occurred – theatres were opened and women were allowed to play – theatres wanted to have the same equality as French theatres. The performances were performed in rich people houses but they also built up theatres.

Opening the theatres

1673 The Test Act – No Catholic can hold public office – the parliament passed test act. Charles II married a catholic princess Caterina de Braganza (Portuguese) – Portuguese were excellent sailors. (She brought tea to England. She came to London, it was a long journey, and she was exhausted. Charles II wanted to be nice and asked her if she want to drink. And she says she would like to drink tea, everybody started to laugh. Then everybody loves the taste of tea.)

She failed – she had no children. Charles II had many illegal children but not with her. The closest male relative was his brother James II. – He was married to the Catholic lady. The influence of the Catholicism led to the appearance of political party in the parliament – political party – people who have same opinions. There were The Whigs (they were against the Catholic Church for religious freedom) and the Tories (they supported the Catholics). This is the beginning of the party parliament system. Instead of fighting with.

James II tried to be extremely authoritative. In 1688 Glorious Revolution – coup d’ état

Mary (daughter of James II) and William of Orange – they have to promise that they would rule but not order. The real executive power goes to the government and prime minister. The beginning of constitutional monarchy. Powers of the king limited by law.

1690 the Battle of Boyne - William the Orange defeated his father in law.

1701 The Act of Settlement – no Catholic can take the Crown – parliament to prevent the son of Orange to take control.

Queen Ann 1702 – 1707

1707 Union of Scotland

Anne’s 17 pregnancies – she was obsessed to have children. All of them died. The power went to the granddaughter of James II who was married to prince from Germany who became George I – this is the end of Stuart dynasty. Next is called the Georgian period which will last to 19th century

George I - He couldn’t speak English. Under these circumstances who ruled the country – the parliament and especially the position of prime minister. The parliament was the most influential.

George II - He could speak English but he had serious health problems.

George III - The power of the king decreased even further. The decrease continued through 18th century.

The new aristocracy (squire – aristocrats since Tudor times or before) Scottish wanted unification in England. Some of them were interested in colonization. Scotland didn’t have ships so they couldn’t get to colonies. In 1800 Ireland was united with England and the name changes: Great Britain. A new aristocracy appeared – this aristocracy was interested in business. The new aristocrats were no squires. The upper middle class and the new aristocracy often marge through marriage.