Imperial Perspective Chapter 2
The Glorious Revolution of Charles II died in 1685 and was succeeded by his brother, the duke of York. James II openly parade his Catholic faith. Parliament invited James’s Protestant daughter Mary and her husband, the Dutch leader William of Orange to assume the throne as joint monarchs. James II fled to France. Bill of Rights and Toleration Act (1689) Limited the powers of rulers and affirmed freedom of Worship for Christians. Did not limit the king’s power in America.
John Locke Defended the overthrow of James II, which set a precedent for revolution against the monarch. Two Treatises on Government (1690) Contract theory of government argued that people were endowed with natural rights to life, liberty, and property. When rulers violated these rights, the people could overthrow the monarch and change their government.
The Habit of Self- Government Americans liked being British subjects. Opportunities for trade and commerce. Military protection. Political stability. Benefits had few costs. Salutary neglect. Home rule.
Troubled Neighbors Indian-wars A series of Indian wars in the mid-1670s King Philip’s War in New England between colonists and the Wampanoag tribe. Bacon’s Rebellion Virtually a civil war in Virginia over how to control the Indians. Nathaniel Bacon burned Jamestown in 1676 in an effort to arrest the governor. Bacon became ill and died of swamp fever.
England vs. France A competition to dominate world trade and naval power. Intensified after the Glorious Revolution. Four Wars War of the League of Augsburg / King William’s War ( ) War of the Spanish Succession / Queen Anne’s War ( ) War of the Austrian Succession / King George’s War ( ) Seven Years’ War / French and Indian War ( )
French & Indian War (Seven Years’ War) Expansion led to conflict. The Ohio Valley French Fort Duquesne. George Washington and Fort Necessity. Three Phases : British in North America losing : War starts in Europe/England in charge : English win one battle after another.
Peace of Paris (1763) France: Ended French power in North America. Britain: Everything east of Mississippi River (except N.O.) Spain: Louisiana
Postwar Expectations Colonial pride and optimism English resentments Unsatisfied with colonists role in war Want more control Want colonies to help pay for defense 4 wars left England in enormous debt