Restoration

Definition

Restoration refers to the period in England from 1660 to 1688 when the monarchy was re-established after the Interregnum, which followed the English Civil War. This era saw Charles II returning from exile to reclaim the throne, leading to a significant shift in the political landscape and the relationship between the monarchy and Parliament, ultimately influencing constitutionalism in England.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Restoration marked a return to monarchy after a decade of republican rule under Oliver Cromwell and his son Richard.
2. Charles II's reign was characterized by attempts to balance power between the monarchy and Parliament, setting the stage for future constitutional developments.
3. The period witnessed a revival of arts and culture, known as the Restoration era, with notable advancements in literature, theater, and science.
4. The Clarendon Code was enacted during this time, establishing laws that enforced conformity to the Church of England and persecuted dissenters.
5. The Restoration laid the groundwork for significant constitutional changes, culminating in the Glorious Revolution and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy.

Review Questions

• How did the Restoration impact the relationship between the monarchy and Parliament in England?
  • The Restoration significantly impacted the relationship between the monarchy and Parliament by reinstating royal authority while also emphasizing the importance of parliamentary power. Charles II's attempts to navigate these powers led to a complex dynamic where Parliament began asserting its rights, setting a precedent for constitutionalism. This era introduced political parties like Tories and Whigs, reflecting differing views on royal prerogative versus parliamentary sovereignty.
• In what ways did arts and culture flourish during the Restoration period, and how did this reflect broader societal changes?
  • During the Restoration period, arts and culture experienced a remarkable revival as theaters reopened, literature flourished, and scientific inquiry advanced. This cultural flourishing was reflective of a society eager to reestablish itself after years of conflict and repression. Playwrights like Aphra Behn and poets like John Milton captured new ideas about identity, politics, and human experience, illustrating shifts in public thought influenced by returning stability under Charles II's rule.
• Evaluate how the events during the Restoration set the stage for the Glorious Revolution and subsequent constitutional developments in England.
  • The events during the Restoration were crucial in shaping political discourse that ultimately led to the Glorious Revolution. The balance of power established between Charles II’s monarchy and Parliament created an environment where conflicts over governance could arise. As tensions grew under James II’s reign regarding religious tolerance and royal authority, opposition from Parliament solidified into organized resistance. The resulting revolution not only ousted James but also reaffirmed Parliament's power over monarchy, firmly establishing constitutional governance that would influence modern democracy.

Related terms

Interregnum: The period between 1649 and 1660 when England had no monarchy, following the execution of Charles I and the establishment of the Commonwealth under Oliver Cromwell.

Glorious Revolution: The event in 1688 that resulted in the overthrow of King James II and the ascension of William and Mary to the throne, marking a crucial turning point in the development of constitutional monarchy.

Tories and Whigs: The two major political parties that emerged during the Restoration period, with Tories generally supporting royal authority and Whigs advocating for parliamentary power and civil liberties.