... bound to likewise uphold the crown. In 1653, the country was governed under the protectorate of Richard and Oliver Cromwell, but England eventually returned to a monarchical government. Burke points out that another opportunity for altering the government came with the Glorious revolution in 1688, where the English Bill of Rights, the "cornerstone of the British constitution, as reinforced, explained, improved, and in its fundamental principles for ever settled,"3 established the otherwise rightful hereditary monarchs William and Mary as rulers. He says that this was the "proof that the nation was of opinion it ought not to be done at any time."4 Burke saw the revolution's purpose was to replace faulty individuals while preserving "ancient indisputable laws and liberties, and that ancient constitution of government which is our only security for law and liberty."5 Yet another opportunity arose when the "settlement of the crown" once again came before Parliament because ...

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