The Impact of Further Developments in Government after 1688

Establishment of Constitutional Monarchy (1689)

The Glorious Revolution ended with the establishment of a Constitutional Monarchy under William III and Mary II. The Parliament gained more power, emphasising a decisive shift from absolute monarchs.
The Bill of Rights 1689 was introduced, which limited the monarch’s powers and gave specific rights to the Parliament such as regular meetings, and freedom of speech within its confines. This ensured a further dilution of monarchical powers.

Religious Tolerance and Establishment of the Church of England (1689)

The Toleration Act 1689 marked a significant change in religious policy, allowing Protestant nonconformists to practise their faith, albeit with some restrictions. This did not extend to Catholics, however.
The Act of Settlement 1701, asserted the supremacy of the Anglican Church by establishing that future monarchs had to be Protestants - a clear move against Catholicism.

Balance of Power between the Crown and the Parliament (After 1689)

William III ruled with the consent of the Parliament, initiating a more balanced power structure, unlike previous Stuart rulers.
Financial control shifted significantly towards the Parliament with the formation of the national bank and the development of a national system for public debt.

Unity under the Act of Union (1707)

The Act of Union 1707 unified England and Scotland into one kingdom, known as Great Britain, with a single Parliament. This was a significant political development stabilising government and paving the way for a united kingdom.

Political Stability under Queen Anne (1702-1714)

Queen Anne, the last of the Stuart monarchs, witnessed continual peace with the Parliament during her reign and maintained the Protestant succession.
The Hanoverian succession was established during Anne’s reign under the Act of Settlement 1701. Her death in 1714 marked the end of the Stuart era, leading to a new era of political stability under the Hanoverians.

These points reflect the transformation in government post 1688, characterised by a balance of power between the monarchy and Parliament, the establishment of constitutional monarchy, religious tolerance, and geopolitical unity. These significant developments changed the way England and Wales were governed, laying the foundation for modern British democracy. It is important to understand these concepts to get a comprehensive view of the Royalty, Revolution and Restoration period from 1603 to 1715.