Political developments and conflicts: Exclusion; James II and attempts at absolutism and restoration of Catholicism
Parliament tried to ban Charles II's Catholic brother James from ever becoming king. When James became king anyway, he pushed royal power to its limits and tried to reverse the Protestant settlement.
Real World
When Charles II dissolved Parliament in 1681 rather than allow the third Exclusion Bill to pass, he effectively killed parliamentary attempts to remove James — just as a modern leader might call a snap election to reset a hostile legislature.
Exam Focus
For 'explain' questions, link the Exclusion Crisis directly to James II's later policies to show long-term significance.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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