Charles II, Court and Parliament (Revision Mat)

Revision Resource: Charles II, His Court, and Relationship with Parliament (essential for AQA GCSE History - Restoration England)

Topic Overview:
This revision mat is designed to help you understand the key aspects of Charles II’s reign, focusing on his court and relationship with Parliament. It’s an essential tool for students studying the Restoration period in British history.

Key Areas Covered:
Charles II’s Restoration (1660):

The return of the monarchy after the Interregnum period.
Key events leading up to the Restoration, including the Declaration of Breda.
The Court of Charles II:

The lavish and extravagant lifestyle of the court.
Influences from French culture and the role of royal mistresses.
Key figures at court: Barbara Palmer, Duchess of Cleveland; Nell Gwyn; and Louise de Kérouaille.
Charles II’s Personality and Leadership Style:

His charm, wit, and diplomatic skills.
Balancing acts between different political and religious factions.
Relationship with Parliament:

Initial cooperation and later tensions.
The role of the Cavalier Parliament (1661-1679) and subsequent Exclusion Crisis.
Key legislation and acts passed during his reign, such as the Clarendon Code and the Test Act