Question 1: Describe the main reasons why the monarchy was restored in 1660 after the period of the English Civil War and the Interregnum.

Answer: The main reasons included widespread support for the monarchy among the population, dissatisfaction with the republican government, fears of chaos without a monarch, and the desire for stability and order. Additionally, Charles II had been seen as a legitimate heir, and there was a belief that restoring him would reunite the country.

Question 2: Explain the significance of the Declaration of Breda in 1660 and how it influenced Charles II's return to the throne.

Answer: The Declaration of Breda was a document in which Charles II promised to forgive past crimes, respect property rights, and call a Parliament. It reassured the political and military factions, encouraging them to accept his return and restoring trust in his leadership.

Question 3: Identify three key features of the political changes that occurred during the Restoration period.

Answer: 1. The re-establishment of the monarchy with Charles II as king. 2. The reopening and granting of charters to the Royal Society for scientific advancement. 3. The re-establishment of the Church of England as the state religion.

Question 4: Discuss the impact of the Great Fire of London in 1666 on the city and its rebuilding efforts.

Answer: The Great Fire destroyed much of central London, including important buildings and homes. It led to significant urban redevelopment, including stricter building codes, the introduction of firebreaks, and the rebuilding of the city with wider streets and stone buildings to prevent future fires.

Question 5: Describe the role and significance of the Cavalier Parliament (1661-1679) during the Restoration.

Answer: The Cavalier Parliament was strongly royalist, supporting King Charles II. It passed laws that reinforced Anglican dominance, suppressed dissent, and increased royal authority. Its actions helped restore stability but also laid foundations for future conflicts over religion and royal power.

Question 6: Sketch a simple diagram of a typical 17th-century London street following the Great Fire, showing wider streets, open spaces, and more fire-resistant buildings.

Answer: A correct sketch would include wider streets, open spaces or squares, buildings made of stone or brick instead of wood, and possibly firebreaks or gaps between buildings to prevent the spread of fire.

Question 7: Assess the extent to which the Restoration period was a time of stability in England. Use specific examples to support your answer.

Answer: The Restoration brought political stability by restoring the monarchy and re-establishing the Church of England. However, it also experienced conflicts such as the Exclusion Crisis and religious tensions. Overall, it was a period of both stability and underlying unrest, with progress in science and culture but ongoing political and religious disputes.

Question 8: Explain how the policies of James II differed from those of his predecessor, Charles II, and what consequences these policies had.

Answer: James II was openly Catholic and sought to promote religious tolerance, which alarmed Protestant nobles and Parliament. His policies led to increased tensions, opposition, and ultimately contributed to the Glorious Revolution of 1688, which deposed him.