Speech of James II in support of the standing army and Catholic officers, 1685

Speech of James II in support of the standing army and Catholic officers, 1685

1. Historical Context

   • During the Monmouth and Argyll rebellions Parliament allowed James to breach the Test Acts which permitted the appointment of Catholic officers
     • Once the rebellions ended Parliament wanted James to disband the Catholic Regiments

2. Content

   • James asked for further supplies to maintain standing army on foot, acknowlegding that he had breached the test acts
     • Gives reasons for increasing army, requests assistance, reassuring parliament of its cause, but doesnt specifically mention catholic officers

3. Purpose

   • Wants commons to vote in supply so that he can afford a large standing army
   • Wants them to allow him to continue to breach the test acts so that he can employ catholic officers under him