The System of the World Themes

The System of the World Themes

Political Power

Two political parties battle for domination in England in the 1700s prior to the Industrial Revolution. These are the Whigs, named for their closely cut hair and the Tories, who are greatly influenced by the church and believe that James Stuart should be king after Queen Anne's demise. The Whigs are concerned with wealth, intellect and Hanoverian succession should Queen Anne die.

As the Tories and Whigs battle in The System of the World, Queen Anne clings to life and uncertainty grows across England, with many people choosing a political side. As the queen becomes increasingly incapacitated, the nation's doubts follow suit and people speculate on who Queen Anne will choose to take the throne upon her death. The Tories send Jacobite assassins to kill Princess Caroline and George Augustus after the death of Queen Sophie so that Hanoverian succession will not rule England should Queen Anne request this. The...
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