Let's be honest, the full title—Geschichte von England seit der Thronbesteigung Jakob's des Zweiten. Neunter…—is a mouthful. But behind that imposing German translation lies one of the most influential and readable histories ever written in English. This is the ninth volume of Thomas Babington Macaulay's monumental work.

The Story

This book picks up right after one of England's most pivotal moments: the Glorious Revolution. King James II, a Catholic, has been forced off the throne. In his place are the Protestant rulers, William of Orange and his wife Mary (James's own daughter). The problem? The job isn't finished. James hasn't given up; he's in Ireland, gathering an army with French support to win back his crown. Meanwhile, in Scotland, his supporters are also fighting. Macaulay follows the new king, William, as he confronts these twin threats. The book tracks the brutal war in Ireland, culminating in the famous Battle of the Boyne, and the parallel struggles to secure control in Scotland. It's the story of a new political system—constitutional monarchy—fighting for its life against the old idea of absolute, divinely-appointed kings.

Why You Should Read It

You should read it because Macaulay makes you care. He's not a neutral observer; he's a passionate advocate for the Whig political tradition that championed parliamentary power and civil liberties. He believes the revolution of 1688 was a glorious, necessary step forward for human freedom. Because of this, his characters aren't just names. William is the determined, often sickly, defender of a new order. James is a tragic figure, blinded by his own faith. Macaulay paints vivid scenes—the tension in Parliament, the chaos of battle, the personal anxieties of the rulers. He connects political decisions to their real human cost. Reading him, you understand why these events mattered so much, not just for kings, but for the everyday people whose rights were being decided.

Final Verdict

This is not a book for absolute beginners to English history—you'll want a basic grasp of the Stuarts and Tudors first. But for anyone with that foundation, it's a masterpiece. It's perfect for readers who love big, narrative-driven histories that feel like novels, for fans of political drama like House of Cards (but real), and for anyone who wants to understand the origins of modern British democracy. Just remember, Macaulay has a strong point of view. He's telling the winning side's story. Read it for its brilliant storytelling and powerful argument, but maybe keep a more modern, balanced history nearby for perspective. It's a thrilling, opinionated, and essential ride through a nation's defining crisis.