Test Act

The Test Act was a series of laws passed in England, especially prominent in the 17th and 18th centuries, that required certain public officials and individuals in specific professions to demonstrate their allegiance to the Church of England. To hold office or teach in universities, one had to take oaths and receive communion in the Anglican Church. These laws effectively excluded Catholics, nonconformists, and other religious minorities from many aspects of public life. The Test Act was gradually repealed in the 19th century, leading to greater religious tolerance in British society.