William and Mary

William and Mary refers to the joint rule of William III and Mary II over England, Scotland, and Ireland starting in 1689 after they deposed King James II. This period marked the constitutional shift toward parliamentary sovereignty and the establishment of the Bill of Rights in 1689, limiting royal power and protecting individual rights. Their reign is associated with the Glorious Revolution, which led to a constitutional monarchy. The term also relates to the University of William & Mary in Virginia, founded in 1693, named in their honor, symbolizing enlightenment and political change.