Mary of Modena

Mary of Modena Kneller

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Mary of Modena

Mary of Modena (1658–1718) was the queen consort of England, Scotland, and Ireland as the second wife of King James II and VII. Born in Modena, Italy, Mary married James in 1673. She was known for her devout Catholicism and her efforts to promote the interests of the Catholic minority in England.

Early Life and Marriage Mary of Modena was born on October 5, 1658, in Modena, Italy, to Alfonso IV, Duke of Modena, and his wife, Laura Martinozzi. In 1673, at the age of 15, she married James, Duke of York, who later became King James II and VII of England, Scotland, and Ireland.

Queen Consort Mary became queen consort in 1685 when James ascended the throne. As a Catholic queen in a predominantly Protestant country, she faced opposition and suspicion from many of her subjects. Despite this, Mary was known for her piety and charitable works.

The Glorious Revolution Mary's reign as queen consort was tumultuous, marked by political and religious tensions. The birth of a Catholic heir in 1688 heightened fears of a Catholic succession, leading to the Glorious Revolution. Mary and James were forced to flee to France, where they lived in exile until James's death in 1701.

Later Life After James's death, Mary continued to live in France, where she devoted herself to charitable causes and the welfare of her surviving children. She died on May 7, 1718, in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France.

Legacy Mary of Modena's legacy is a complex one, shaped by the political and religious conflicts of her time. Despite facing opposition and exile, she remained steadfast in her faith and commitment to her family.

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