Dynasty In London In 1714: Edinburgh produced o drew to herself many of the leading historian: and philosophers, scientists and architects, paint ers and literary men, doctors and surgeons to be found in the 18th century world. Thi fierce concentration on religious controversie moderated, though the flames still burned beneath the surface and came to life in such episodes as the anti-Catholic riots of 1779 which helped Fan the Gordon Riots in London the following year. See LONDON-Georgian London (1714-1837).
Great Britain was exceptionally fortunate the 18th century in that there was no "war the British succession," no internal upheaval which other powers intervened. That the coun escaped the misfortunes which in turn bef Spain, Poland, Austria, and Bavaria in that ce tury of disputed successions was due rather the existence of the English Channel than to a political factor, for on three occasions Brib was the scene of civil strife between the adh< ents of the Hanoverian monarchy and those oi Stuart restoration. Nevertheless, the change dynasty in London in 1714, when the Elector Hannover succeeded Anne as George I, had important effect on both the foreign and domesi policies of the country, which were in any ca closely connected.
Thus in 1714, as in 1603, one dynasty succeeded another peacefully. But it was a very different kingdom. The sovereignty of Parliament-its control over taxation and foreign policy-had been confirmed, reflecting and reinforcing the even more undisputed dominance of the "natural rulers" in the countryside. Government patronage was no longer dispensed by the crown but by ministers responsible to the House of Commons. (As long as ministers retained a majority there, their friends kept the spoils of office.)
|
|
Photography
