Final answer:
The greatest monarch in English history is a subjective matter, with influential rulers like William and Mary, who signed the English Bill of Rights, and Queen Anne, under whom the Act of Union was created, often cited. The Glorious Revolution also greatly shaped the balance of power between monarchy and Parliament.
Step-by-step explanation:
When discussing the greatest monarch in English history, opinions vary widely as the assessment can be subjective and dependent on criteria such as military success, political reform, economic development, or cultural influence. It is important to note pivotal monarchs like William and Mary who accepted a limited monarchy constrained by the English Bill of Rights. The Act of Union under Queen Anne, resulting in the unification of the Parliaments of Scotland and England and leading to the term Great Britain, is another significant event. Furthermore, the Glorious Revolution of 1688 and 1689 was a remarkable period that brought about reforms defining the relationship between the monarchy and Parliament. Historical figures such as King Alfred, who defended against the Danes, or Charles II, who navigated through issues of religious sects and relations with Parliament, also play important roles in shaping what we consider as effective monarchs.