In 1849, Macaulay published the first two volumes of "The History of England, From the Accession of James II," which were immediately well-received. As a Whig, with little tolerance for Tories or understanding of James II, Macaulay disregarded many authoritative texts in his research; as a result, his work is often prejudiced and mistaken in the facts, with little room for philosophy or theorizing. However, it cannot be denied that this work is a lively and beautifully written masterpiece of English literature. This is the first in a series of five volumes, and includes information on the reign of James II.