Who is William and Mary named after? This question often arises when discussing the namesake of the prestigious University of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. The namesake of the university, William and Mary, refer to King William III of England and his wife, Queen Mary II. Their reign, known as the Glorious Revolution, had a significant impact on the history of the British Isles and the American colonies. This article delves into the lives of these influential monarchs and their legacy in the United States.
The story of William and Mary begins with King William III, born as William of Orange in the Netherlands. He was the son of Mary, Princess Royal, and Prince William of Orange. William III ascended to the English throne in 1689, following the Glorious Revolution, which was a bloodless revolution that overthrew King James II. The Glorious Revolution was a pivotal moment in British history, as it established the principle of parliamentary sovereignty and laid the foundation for the constitutional monarchy that would define the British monarchy for centuries to come.
Queen Mary II, born as Mary Stuart, was the daughter of King James II. After the Glorious Revolution, she was crowned queen alongside her husband, William III. The couple’s reign was marked by their strong Protestant beliefs and their efforts to secure the Anglican Church as the official religion of England. Their reign also saw the signing of the Bill of Rights in 1689, which outlined the rights and freedoms of English citizens and limited the powers of the monarchy.
The University of William and Mary was founded in 1693 by a royal charter granted by King William III and Queen Mary II. The university was established to train clergymen and educate the young men of Virginia. The namesake of the university was chosen to honor the monarchs who were instrumental in the Glorious Revolution and the establishment of the new government in England.
The legacy of William and Mary is evident in the university’s commitment to excellence in education, as well as its dedication to the principles of liberty, democracy, and the rule of law. The university’s motto, “Sic Semper Tyrannis,” translates to “Thus Always to Tyrants,” and serves as a reminder of the Glorious Revolution and the fight against tyranny.
In conclusion, William and Mary, the namesakes of the University of William and Mary, were influential monarchs who played a crucial role in the Glorious Revolution and the establishment of the constitutional monarchy in England. Their legacy is celebrated through the university’s commitment to education, freedom, and the rule of law. The question of who William and Mary are named after is not only a historical inquiry but also a testament to the profound impact these monarchs had on the world.
