Jacobite Rising of 1689

The Jacobite rising of 1689 was a pivotal conflict in Scottish history, primarily fought in the Highlands, aimed at restoring James VII to the throne after he was deposed by the Glorious Revolution of 1688. This uprising was the first of several Jacobite efforts to reinstate the House of Stuart, spanning into the late 18th century.

James VII, a Catholic, had come to power in 1685 with broad support, despite his religion. His reign was controversial, particularly in Protestant England and Scotland. His policies and the birth of his Catholic heir in 1688 turned many against him, leading to William of Orange's invitation to intervene. William landed in England in November 1688, and James fled to France in December. By February 1689, William and Mary were declared joint monarchs of England.

In Scotland, the situation was complex. A Scottish Convention was called in March 1689, heavily influenced by exiled Presbyterians who opposed James. When James sent a letter demanding obedience, it only solidified opposition. The Convention ended James' reign and affirmed the power of the Scottish Parliament.

The rising began under John Graham, Viscount Dundee, who rallied Highland clans. Despite a significant victory at Killiecrankie in July 1689, Dundee was killed, weakening the Jacobites. His successor, Alexander Cannon, struggled due to lack of resources and internal divisions. Major conflicts included the siege of Blair Castle and the Battle of Dunkeld, both proving inconclusive for the Jacobites.

Government forces, led by Hugh Mackay and later Thomas Livingstone, systematically dismantled Jacobite strongholds. The decisive defeat of Jacobite forces at Cromdale in May 1690 marked the effective end of the rebellion.

The conflict formally ended with the Massacre of Glencoe in February 1692, following the failed negotiations and attempts to secure Highland loyalty. This event underscored the harsh realities of post-rebellion reprisals.

In the aftermath, William's reliance on Presbyterian support led to the elimination of episcopacy in the Church of Scotland. Many displaced ministers were later allowed back, while a significant faction formed the Scottish Episcopal Church, continuing to support Jacobite causes in future uprisings.