Seven Steps To a Limited Monarchy

Magna Carta

Jun 15, 1215

The Magna Carta was a document signed by King John in 1215 that made royalty subject to laws just like any other man. He signed this document out of necessity because nobles of the land were threatening him. The Magna Carta basically laid out some freedoms of its people and deemed that no one was above the law. This was the first real document limiting the power of kings.

Increased Representation in Parliament

1294

By 1295 Parliament expanded its representation to include sheriffs from counties all across England, as well as nobles, bishops, and other representatives. A document called the Provisions of Oxford was also drafted demanding regular meetings of the Parliament. The legislative body of England was now much more representative of its people and instructed change that benefited its citizens rather than the unilateral unchecked rule the king once possessed.

Petition of Right

1628

This petition was written by Parliament citing different laws that the King was not following. The document aimed to recognize four principles that should be followed in England. “No taxation without the consent of Parliament, no imprisonment without cause, no quartering of soldiers on subjects, and no martial law in peacetime”.

English Civil War

1642

English civil war was fought between Parliamentarians and Royalists over disagreements about how Charles was handling instructions. These wars included the capturing and recapturing of Ireland and Scotland. The English civil war lasted until 1615 and was part of the larger “War of Three Kingdoms. It ended with Charles’s son taking back the throne so long as he promised religious toleration.

Restoration

1660

The British Restoration is another example of the people having control over the monarchs. A general named George Monck promised Charles II a reinstatement to the crown so long as he promised religious toleration in the country. He obliged.

Abdication of James II

1673

James abdicated his throne in 1673 because he did not want to take an oath imposed by the British Test Act. This act meant all people in public life must take the Anglican Communion which was anti-Catholic. Therefore he was deposed in the Glorious Revolution, which was the Catholic James being replaced by William III and Mary II, protestants. This abdication proved Parliament was the true ruler of England because they could force out the King.

English Bill of Rights

Dec 16, 1689

After ousting James II from England, the new king and queen, William III and Mary II, signed the English Bill of Rights into law. This bill gave certain constitutional rights to the people and gave parliament power over the monarchy. This bill was the beginning of a constitutional monarchy in England.