King James II of England was born on October 14, 1633, and became king in 1685 after the death of his brother, Charles II. He was the last Catholic monarch of England and faced opposition due to his attempts to promote religious tolerance for Catholics and dissenters, which alarmed many Protestants. His reign was marked by political turmoil and conflict, leading to the Glorious Revolution of 1688. This event resulted in his overthrow and the ascension of William III and Mary II to the throne, establishing a constitutional monarchy and ensuring Protestant succession in England.