The King of England during Locke’s time, who reigned from 1650 to 1702. In the preface to the Second Treatise of Government, Locke states he hopes his discourse will reinforce King William’s place on the throne, as King William rules by consent of the people, which, according to Locke, is the only lawful government. Locke objects to absolute monarchies, not all monarchies, and he clearly supports King William.