Declaration of Indulgence (1672) facts for kids

The Declaration of Indulgence was a special announcement made by King Charles II in 1672. He wanted to give more religious freedom to certain groups in England. These groups included Protestants who didn't follow the official Church of England, called nonconformists, and also Roman Catholics.

King Charles II tried to stop the "Penal Laws." These were laws that punished people who didn't attend the Church of England.

What Was the Declaration of Indulgence?

The Declaration was issued on March 15, 1672. It was a big deal because it aimed to change how people practiced their religion in England.

Why Was It Controversial?

Many people did not agree with the Declaration. Sir Orlando Bridgeman, a high-ranking official, even quit his job. He refused to approve the Declaration because he thought it was too kind to Catholics.

What Happened Next?

In 1673, the Cavalier Parliament, which was England's law-making body, forced King Charles II to take back the Declaration. Instead, they made a new law called the first of the Test Acts (1673).

This new law said that anyone who wanted to work for the government in England had to deny a Catholic belief called transubstantiation. They also had to take part in a special ceremony of the Church of England.

Later, King James II, who was Charles II's brother and openly Catholic, tried to issue a similar Declaration. He wanted to allow general religious tolerance. However, this attempt became one of the main reasons that led to the Glorious Revolution. This event caused King James II to lose his throne.

See also

• Declaration of Indulgence (1687)
• Religion in the United Kingdom