Mary II of England

Mary II accepted the invitation from English parliamentarians to replace her father James II. She and her husband William of Orange invaded England with a Dutch fleet, forcing James II to flee. This bloodless transfer of power established parliamentary sovereignty over the monarchy.

Mary II was crowned joint sovereign with her husband William III at Westminster Abbey. She accepted the Bill of Rights, which limited royal powers and affirmed parliamentary authority. This coronation formalized the new constitutional arrangement.

Mary II served as regent while William III campaigned in Ireland against James II's forces. She effectively governed England, managing the Treasury and military logistics. Her regency demonstrated her administrative competence and maintained stability.

Mary II died of smallpox at Kensington Palace at age 32. Her death deeply affected William III and the nation. She was buried in Westminster Abbey. Her early death ended her joint reign and left William as sole monarch.