The Hanover Dynasty and the First British Empire

The Rise of the Hanover Dynasty

Following the reigns of William and Mary, a new era began with the Hanover Dynasty, starting with King George I. This dynasty originated in Germany; the reason for this German succession was that James I had a daughter who married the Elector Palatine in Bohemia. During this period, the Kings increasingly required a 'right hand,' which led to the emergence of the Prime Minister. The first to hold this position was Robert Walpole. The Prime Minister handled all strategic planning, which meant the role of the King became largely honorific. Behind the Prime Minister was the Cabinet System.

Global Conflicts and the Windsor Name Change

Later, when England entered into war with Germany, the Hanover Dynasty changed its name to the Windsor Dynasty. The 18th century was a period defined by international conflicts, and the global map underwent several changes. Persistent tension and fighting broke out between England and France, a rivalry that lasted for a long time and did not finish until the year 1815.

Major Conflicts from 1688 to 1748

From 1688 to 1748, England was involved in three primary conflict groups:

• The Nine Years War (1688–1697)

  From 1688, England had a Dutch King, William of Orange, who had recently ascended to the throne.

• The War of the Spanish Succession (1702–1713)

  This conflict was so named because the throne of Spain had been given to Philip V, the first of the Bourbon Dynasty. Since the King was entirely pro-France, an alliance formed between Spain and France. England considered a break necessary between these two countries.

  The war had lasting effects that continue to the present day. England seized Menorca and Gibraltar, though Menorca was eventually recovered. The conflict concluded with the Treaty of Utrecht.

• The War of the Austrian Succession

  These wars shared a common theme: the primary enemy was France. France continued to be the central adversary for many years. A second element to take into account is that these were global wars; they were fought not only in Europe but also overseas. Consequently, these wars were extremely expensive. A third point is that England emerged as the winner.

The Birth of the First British Empire

By 1749, as these conflicts ended, the First British Empire was well consolidated. However, the conclusion of these wars eventually brought about problems with the American colonies.