William III and Mary II: Partners in Revolution
The joint monarchy of William III and Mary II was a dramatic period of change in Britain and that drama started from the very outset of their reign. They took power with what was essentially a coup, deposing Mary’s father James II in 1689 with Dutch troops by their side. In the short reign that followed, William and Mary set Britain on the constitutional path it would follow for the subsequent two centuries with parliament achieving political predominance.
Keates is clear in his admiration of his subjects’ political achievements but he also covers the establishment of the Bank of England, colonial expansion and the commitment of Britain to almost endless war against France and Louis XIV. He manages to consider their personal relationships too. Keates firmly denies William’s alleged homosexuality while allowing the closeness of his friendships with good looking Dutch men. He is also particularly good at showing how William and Mary’s relationship grew closer despite spending so much time apart. With good use of varied sources, Keates packs in some fine cultural detail, particularly on the music of Purcell. This handsome short book serves as a useful and interesting introduction to the period.
