The Jacobites

The Jacobites were supporters of the claim that James II of England and VII of Scotland, a Catholic king, and his descendants should inherit the throne, opposing the ruling Protestant monarchs like William III and Queen Anne. The movement aimed to restore the Stuart dynasty to full power, believing they were the legitimate rulers. Their efforts included key uprisings in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, such as the 1715 and 1745 rebellions. Although mostly unsuccessful, the Jacobites symbolized broader conflicts over religion, succession, and national identity in Britain.