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The Battle of the Boyne and the Jacobites

Study note

After the Glorious Revolution of 1688, the former king James II did not give up his claim to the throne. He tried to regain power, and his struggle came to a head in Ireland. There, in 1690, his forces were defeated by William III at the Battle of the Boyne. This victory is still remembered in parts of Northern Ireland today.

Those who supported the return of James II and, later, his descendants were known as Jacobites. This name comes from the Latin form of James. The supporters of James's line were the Jacobites, not the Roundheads, Chartists or suffragettes, who belong to other periods. Remember two key facts: William III defeated James II at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690, and James's supporters were called Jacobites.

Memory tip: 1690 Battle of the Boyne, William III beats James II; James's supporters = Jacobites.

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Question 1 of 2

What were supporters of the return of James II and his descendants called?

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Show all questions and answers for The Battle of the Boyne and the Jacobites(2 questions with explanations)

The Battle of the Boyne and the Jacobites: questions, answers and explanations

  1. 1. What were supporters of the return of James II and his descendants called?

    • Roundheads
    • Suffragettes
    • Jacobites
    • Chartists

    Correct answer: Jacobites

    Supporters of James II's line were known as Jacobites.

  2. 2. In which 1690 Irish battle did William III defeat James II?

    • The Battle of Naseby
    • The Battle of the Boyne
    • The Battle of Culloden
    • The Battle of Bannockburn

    Correct answer: The Battle of the Boyne

    William III defeated James II at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690.

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