Page 2: Royal Actions and Religious Tolerance

The actions of Charles II and James II regarding religious tolerance significantly impacted political stability. Their attempts to implement religious reforms often met with strong parliamentary resistance.

Example: Charles II's 1662 attempt to suspend the Act of Uniformity demonstrated his sympathy for non-conformists.

Highlight: The appointment of moderate Puritan-associated advisers in 1667 showed Charles II's attempts to balance religious factions.

Definition: Non-conformists were Protestant Christians who did not adhere to the governance and practices of the established Church of England.

The period demonstrates how royal attempts at religious tolerance, particularly towards Catholics, often backfired and increased political tensions.

Page 1: Religious Fears and Financial Challenges

The restoration period witnessed significant tensions between monarchy and parliament, driven by religious concerns and financial difficulties. The fear of Catholicism in restored monarchy 1660-88 manifested through several key events and policies.

Example: The 1672 Declaration of Indulgence, allowing Catholics private worship, sparked parliamentary opposition leading to the Test Act of 1673.

Highlight: The 1678 Popish Plot triggered widespread anti-Catholic sentiment and exclusion crisis, challenging the divine right of kings.

Definition: The Test Act required all civil and military officeholders to take Anglican communion and reject Catholic doctrine of transubstantiation.

The financial aspects of discontent were equally significant, with Charles II's monetary difficulties forcing him to seek parliamentary support.

Vocabulary: The Hearth Tax - a tax levied on households based on the number of hearths, implemented during the Cavalier Parliament.

Quote: "The crown's debts led to the Stop of the Exchequer (1672) Parliamentary opposition to Charles II over finance."