James II
Editorial Reviews
Book Description
Offers a balanced new portrait of an unpopular monarch. Gives historical context to the religious strife and bigotry still existing in Scotland - played out in the standoffs between Celtic and Rangers supporters - and Northern Ireland. Provides a much broader perspective than have other histories to date. Examines James' role in the American colonies - not usually considered. Includes synthesis of new material on the Glorious Revolution. In this latest book in the Profiles in Power Series, W. A. Speck looks at James II's record in power and challenges the view of an unenlightened and bigoted despot, seeking answers beyond the usual anglo-centric portrayals, in the American colonies, Scotland and Ireland. Forced out of power in the "Glorious Revolution" of 1688, and defeated in the subsequent battle of the Boyne by William of Orange, the short reign of James II has an importance that reaches far beyond his three years in power. An ardent Roman Catholic, his efforts to return England to the Catholic faith continue to resonate to this day in Northern Ireland. Similarly, his attacks on the representative institutions that had been developing since the Restoration, alienated an initially enthusiastic parliament. W. A. Speck looks at all these issues through the figure of the King. Far more broad-ranging than most studies of James II, the book examines James' role in the American colonies - assigned to him by his brother Charles II - his role in Scotland between 1679 and 1862, and his final exercise of power in Ireland. W.A. Speck
From the Back Cover
Although he was forced out of power in the 'Glorious Revolution' within four years of succeeding to the throne, James II had an impact far greater than his brief and notorious reign would suggest. This new look at James II examines his complex and intriguing character, and analyses his policies, together with their results in all his realms to offer a balanced new portrait of an unpopular monarch. The book looks at: * his attitudes towards his Scottish subjects, first as Duke of York, then as King James VII* his dealings with his Irish subjects, as king regnant and as an exiled monarch to his defeat at the battle of the Boyne* his relations with the American colonies, from his proprietorship of New York to the Glorious Revolution. The controversy about his aims - whether he simply sought toleration for fellow catholics or to establish absolute monarchy - are thus put into perspective, with the colonial dimension showing that he had political ambitions independent of his religions aspirations. W.A. Speck is Visiting Professor, University of Northumbria
James II
James II,W.A. Speck,W. A. Speck,Longman,058228712X,Europe - Great Britain - General,General,History,History - General History,History: World,Modern - 17th Century,Biography: historical,British & Irish history: c 1000 to c 1500,British & Irish history: c 1500 to c 1700,History / General,Scotland
Books Report:
Recommended Books