The phrase William and Mary usually refers to the joint sovereignty over the Kingdoms of England and Scotland of King William III and his wife Queen Mary II. Their reign commenced with the Glorious Revolution of 1688. Mary died in 1694 after which William ruled alone until his death in 1702.
Their rule was the only period in British history in which "joint sovereigns" with equal powers were allowed to reign. Usually, the spouse of the monarch has no power and is simply a consort. The College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia was chartered in 1693 and named in their honor.
"William and Mary" is also the name for a British television series staring Martin Clunes. It was shown on the channel ITV 1 in 2004. It has no relation to the King and Queen, merely a couple with the same names.
See also
Last updated: 10-24-2005 22:13:21
