James II

James II was the last Catholic monarch of England, Scotland, and Ireland, who was deposed in the Glorious Revolution of 1688.

King

October 14, 1633

Libra

September 16, 1701

67

London, England

James II, a 17th-century monarch, is best known for ruling England, Scotland, and Ireland as their last Catholic king. Born on October 14, 1633, he was the second son of King Charles I of England. After his father’s execution during the English Civil War, James began his military career in exile and later fought for his brother, Charles II, during the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660. He ascended to the throne in 1685 after his brother’s death.

Throughout his reign, James II faced numerous conflicts, such as the Monmouth Rebellion and the Glorious Revolution, which ultimately led to his deposition. Despite having a speech impediment that hindered his communication, he was a skilled military commander who participated in several crucial battles for the British Crown. James II was also a patron of the arts, significantly supporting opera, and contributed to the establishment of the Royal Society. Additionally, he played a role in the Anglo-Dutch Wars and advocated for religious tolerance.