Question 1: Describe the main reasons why the monarchy was restored in England in 1660 after the period of the Commonwealth.

Answer: The main reasons included dissatisfaction with the republican government, the desire for stability and tradition, the influence of the monarchy's supporters, and the belief that Charles II was the legitimate king. Economic and political instability also contributed to the desire to restore the monarchy.

Question 2: Explain the significance of the Declaration of Breda issued by Charles II in 1660.

Answer: The Declaration of Breda was significant because it outlined Charles II’s promises to restore stability, pardon former enemies, and respect property rights, helping to gain support for his return and easing tensions after the Civil War.

Question 3: Identify two ways in which the English government changed during the Restoration period.

Answer: Firstly, the monarchy was restored with Charles II as king, ending the republican rule. Secondly, the Parliament gained more influence through the development of constitutional ideas, although the monarchy still held significant power.

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

Answer: The fire destroyed much of central London, including important buildings like St. Paul’s Cathedral. The city was rebuilt with wider streets and brick buildings, which improved fire safety, and it led to significant urban development.

Question 5: Sketch a simple map of London as it might have appeared before the Great Fire, indicating the River Thames, the main market areas, and notable landmarks like the old St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a river flowing through the city, with key areas such as the Market of Cheapside, the location of Old St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the general layout of medieval London streets.

Question 6: Explain the role of the Clarendon Code in shaping religious policies during the Restoration.

Answer: The Clarendon Code was a series of laws that aimed to enforce the Anglican Church’s dominance, suppress non-conformist religions, and re-establish the Church of England’s authority after years of religious turmoil.

Question 7: Discuss how the relationship between the monarchy and Parliament changed during Charles II’s reign.

Answer: The relationship was often tense; Charles II sought to increase royal authority, but Parliament pushed back to limit his power and protect its own rights. This led to conflicts over taxation and religious policies but also some cooperation, setting the stage for future constitutional developments.

Question 8: Identify and explain one major challenge faced by Charles II during his reign.

Answer: One major challenge was managing religious conflict, as there was tension between Catholics, Protestants, and non-conformists. Charles’s secret support for Catholicism created suspicion and opposition, leading to political conflicts.

Question 9: Evaluate the significance of the Test Act of 1673 in the context of religious and political tensions during the Restoration.

Answer: The Test Act was significant because it required public officials to swear allegiance to the Anglican Church, excluding Catholics and non-conformists from government positions. It heightened religious divisions and was part of efforts to ensure Protestant dominance, influencing political stability.