Jacobite Cause

The Jacobite Cause refers to a series of movements in the 17th and 18th centuries aimed at restoring the Stuart monarchy to the British throne. After King James II was overthrown in 1688 during the Glorious Revolution, his supporters, known as Jacobites, sought to reinstate him and his descendants. This led to several rebellions, notably in 1715 and 1745, with the latter led by Charles Edward Stuart, known as "Bonnie Prince Charlie." The cause was rooted in issues of royal legitimacy, religious struggle (Catholicism vs. Protestantism), and national identity, particularly in Scotland. Ultimately, the Jacobites were defeated, leading to the end of their aspirations.