Advanced Placement (AP) European History Practice Exam

What major conflict does the phrase "malicious words" attributed to the accused represent in late seventeenth century England?

1. The tensions between political factions

2. The ongoing tensions between Parliament and the Crown over the limits of royal authority

3. The conflict between the Church of England and dissenters

4. The civil unrest among common citizens

The correct answer is: The ongoing tensions between Parliament and the Crown over the limits of royal authority

The phrase "malicious words" attributed to the accused represents the ongoing tensions between Parliament and the Crown over the limits of royal authority, particularly around the late seventeenth century. This era was marked by significant political strife, particularly through events like the English Civil War and the Glorious Revolution, which challenged the balance of power between the monarchy and Parliament. During this time, speech, and the written word could be potent symbols of dissent and a means of challenging royal authority, directly reflecting the broader struggle for power. The accusations of using "malicious words" would encapsulate the contentious atmosphere where the legitimacy of the king's rule was under scrutiny, and any perceived defiance could lead to severe consequences. The other contexts, such as tensions between political factions, the conflict between the Church and dissenters, and civil unrest among common citizens, while relevant to the historical period, do not capture the essence of the phrase as effectively as the focus on the relationship between Parliament and the Crown. The struggle over authority, representation, and governance was at the heart of many political discourses of this time, making answer B the most appropriate representation of the phrase in question.