On the 30th of June, 1688, the “Immortal Seven” signed and dispatched a letter to William III, Prince of Orange. The Immortal Seven were a group of influential English nobles and clergymen who played a pivotal role in the events leading up to the Glorious Revolution of 1688. The term “Immortal Seven” refers to the seven signatories of a confidential letter sent to William of Orange, inviting him to intervene in English politics to address the growing dissatisfaction with King James II’s reign. These men sought to preserve Protestantism and parliamentary authority in England, fearing James II‘s overt Catholic sympathies and authoritarian tendencies.
The seven signatories were: Charles Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury; William Cavendish, Earl of Devonshire; Thomas Osborne, Earl of Danby; Richard Lumley, Viscount Lumley; Henry Compton, Bishop of London; Edward Russell; and Henry Sidney, who served as the group’s primary correspondent. Their letter, often regarded as a catalyst for the Glorious Revolution, was carefully crafted to persuade William of Orange, married to James II’s Protestant daughter Mary, to lead a military expedition to England.
The letter expressed deep concerns about James II’s policies, particularly his attempts to promote Catholic influence within a predominantly Protestant nation. The authors highlighted the widespread discontent among both the nobility and common citizens, assuring William that his intervention would be met with substantial support. They emphasised that most of England’s political and military leaders were disillusioned with James II and would likely defect to William’s cause upon his arrival.
The letter also referenced the recent birth of James II’s son, James Francis Edward Stuart, which intensified fears of a Catholic dynasty. Prior to this, Mary, William’s wife, had been the heir presumptive, offering hope for a Protestant succession. The birth of a male heir threatened this prospect, galvanising opposition among Protestant leaders.
William of Orange carefully considered the invitation, recognising both the risks and opportunities it presented. Ultimately, he assembled a fleet and landed in England in November 1688, triggering the Glorious Revolution. His arrival led to the swift collapse of James II’s support, culminating in James’s flight to France and William and Mary’s joint ascension to the English throne.
The Immortal Seven’s letter is historically significant as it symbolised a coordinated effort by England’s elite to instigate a change in monarchy without widespread bloodshed. Their actions heralded the establishment of constitutional monarchy in Britain, reinforcing the supremacy of Parliament and securing Protestant succession, principles that shaped the future of the British political system.