The Succession of William and Mary: Who Followed Them to the Throne?

In the aftermath of the Glorious Revolution of 1688, the crowns of England, Scotland, and Ireland were jointly declared by William III of Orange and his wife Mary II, marking a significant shift in British royal history. However, the fate of the throne after these two leaders has been the subject of much interest and study. Queen Anne, who succeeded Mary, left no children, leading to a succession crisis that saw the German Elector of Hanover ascend the throne. This article delves into the intricate details of who followed William and Mary to the throne and the long-term impact of this succession on British royal lineage.

Queen Anne: The Last Stuart Monarch

Following the reigns of William III and Mary II, Queen Anne (1702-1714) became the last monarch of the House of Stuart. Anne, the sister of Mary II, ascended the throne after the death of both her brother-in-law and sister-in-law. Despite her reign being the longest of the Stuart monarchs, Anne tragically left no legitimate heirs, a situation that would eventually lead to a significant change in British royal succession.

The Hanoverian Succession: The Elector of Hanover Ascends

With the death of Anne in 1714, the throne faced an immediate crisis due to the lack of a direct heir. Technically, Mary herself reigned alone for eight years following the death of William. However, the line of succession was determined by the Act of Settlement 1701, which dismissed the claims of Anne's Catholic relatives and favored the Protestant line.

The chosen successor was the Elector of Hanover, George Louis (later George I). Despite his origins as a Prince Elector from Germany, the decision to appoint him was based on the need to ensure religious unity and political stability within the realms. George Louis was a devout Protestant and was considered less likely to foster internal strife compared to Anne's Catholic relatives, who remained in the line of succession despite being passed over.

Impact on British Royal Lineage

The Hanoverian succession marked a definitive shift from the Stuart monarchy to the Hanoverian dynasty. While the shift may have been sudden and perhaps even somewhat irregular to some, it laid the groundwork for the modern British monarchy. The German origin of the new monarchs initially raised questions and perhaps some initial resistance among the English and Scottish populations, but over time, the Hanoverians established strong relationships and a lasting dynasty.

Today, the current royals trace their lineage directly back to George I, the first Hanoverian monarch. This lineage has persisted for over 300 years, resulting in a rich tapestry of royal traditions and institutions that continue to shape British culture and governance.

Conclusion: The Uninterrupted Line of Succession

The succession from William and Mary to Queen Anne and subsequently the Elector of Hanover solidified a legacy that has endured for centuries. It is a testament to the intricate and often unforeseen nature of royal successions, but also to the commitment of the British people to stability and continuity.