The Last Royal Rebel: The Life and Death of James, Duke of Monmouth
This biography of a troubled young man illuminates a troubled period in English history. Born in 1649, the year his grandfather Charles I was executed, James was the illegitimate son of Charles Stuart, who became Charles II. After a nomadic childhood with his single mother, the boy was abducted by his father who, as King, showered him with honors, making him Duke of Monmouth at 14.
Widely adored, in spite of his dissolute lifestyle, the Protestant Monmouth saw himself as heir to the throne instead of his Catholic uncle, James. The King disagreed and, in 1679, expelled his ambitious son. Monmouth began conspiring against his father and uncle and, after his father’s death, he led a rising against James. Defeated in battle, James, Duke of Monmouth, was executed for treason in 1685. He was 36.
Keay credits Monmouth with championing parliamentary democracy and helping prepare the way for the Glorious Revolution which unseated James II. This highly readable biography brings to life a flawed but fascinating young man. Highly recommended.
