Thomas Babington Macaulay's multi-volume history zeroes in on one of England's most pivotal periods. This volume continues his grand narrative, picking up the story of a nation in turmoil.

The Story

This book is part of Macaulay's massive project to tell the story of England from the reign of James II. It covers the fallout of the Glorious Revolution, which booted James from the throne without a major war. We follow William of Orange and Mary as they take power, but the real drama is in the aftermath. It's about securing the revolution, dealing with Jacobite rebels who want the old king back, and the slow, contentious process of writing new rules for how the country should be run. It's the origin story of the constitutional monarchy.

Why You Should Read It

Macaulay doesn't just list facts. He has a point of view. He's a huge fan of the Whig politicians who championed parliamentary power and civil liberties, and his passion is contagious. He makes you feel the tension and the danger of the time. You get to know the key players not just as names, but as people with flaws and ambitions. He argues that this period wasn't just a change of king, but the decisive turn toward modern, representative government. Reading it, you understand why these events still matter.

Final Verdict

Perfect for history buffs who want a narrative with soul, or for anyone curious about how countries reinvent themselves. It's a commitment—the prose is rich and detailed—but incredibly rewarding. If you enjoyed books like Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall for their political intrigue but want the real history, Macaulay is your guide. Just be ready for a deep dive into the arguments that shaped the modern world.