Revolution of 1688 and 1689

Definition

The Revolution of 1688 and 1689, commonly called the Glorious Revolution, was the political transformation in which James II was displaced and William III and Mary II assumed the English throne. The constitutional settlement of 1689 strengthened Parliament’s authority. In astrology, the phrase identifies a historical subject for mundane analysis rather than a distinct technique or chart factor.

Astrological Meaning

Traditional astrologers may study the revolution through several possible charts, including significant event charts, royal nativities, annual ingress charts, lunations, eclipses, and major planetary cycles. Because the revolution unfolded over many months, chart selection must be stated clearly: the landing of William, James II’s departure, the accession, and the constitutional settlement represent different stages. An interpretation might examine angular planets, house emphasis, transits to a monarch’s natal chart, or broader cycles associated with political restructuring. Such symbolism offers a framework for studying timing and collective themes, not proof that celestial factors caused the events.

Why It Matters

This episode illustrates both the possibilities and limits of historical astrology. It teaches astrologers to define the event, justify the chosen date and location, separate national charts from personal natal charts, and compare symbolism with documented circumstances. Studied carefully, it can sharpen mundane techniques while discouraging hindsight-based or overly certain conclusions.

Related Encyclopedia Entries

• Traditional Astrology
• Mundane Astrology
• Ingress Chart
• Natal Chart
• Great Conjunctions