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Year 8 - History

The Whig interpretation of the Glorious Revolution

The Glorious Revolution: how do historians' views of it differ?

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils learn about the Glorious Revolution and the way in which different historians have viewed it. They learn about the causes of this important event before examining Whig and revisionist arguments about its nature.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to describe how Whig historians have interpreted the events of 1688.

Key Notes

  • In the 17th century, a political party known as the Whigs emerged who were opposed to Catholicism and absolute monarchy.
  • Whig historians share a belief that society developed and made progress over time, leading to constitutional monarchy.
  • Whig historians see the Glorious Revolution positively, seeing it as significant & underpinned by established tradition.
  • The Whig interpretation was almost unquestioned for nearly 300 years, but it did contain flaws.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Whig: in history, a term used to describe an historian who believes that societies make progress over time
  • monarch: a sovereign head of state, such as a king, queen or emperor

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • The 'Whigs' gained their name because of the fancy wigs and hairstyles that were the fashion in the 17th and 18th centuries.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Summarise this historical learning in two key ideas.

In the 17th century, a political party known as the Whigs emerged who were opposed to Catholicism and absolute monarchy. Whig historians share a belief that society developed and made progress over time, leading to constitutional monarchy.

2. Define this history term and explain why it matters in this topic. 'Whig'

in history, a term used to describe an historian who believes that societies make progress over time.

3. Correct this common history misconception using evidence language.

Mistake: The 'Whigs' gained their name because of the fancy wigs and hairstyles that were the fashion in the 17th and 18th centuries. Correction: 'Whigs' has nothing to do with hairstyles, but was instead originally a derogatory term used to describe the 'Country Party', as they were originally known. 'Whig' was a sound Scottish drovers shouted when controlling cattle on the way to market.

More Lessons In This Unit

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