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Period: Aug 22, 1485 to
The Tudors Rule England
Tudor monarchs rule England and respect Parliament's power. -
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Stuart King James I Rules
King James I comes to power in England and immediately begins to clash with Parliament for power. Parliament retaliates by declaring its own rights and insisting that the King sign the Petition of Right. -
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Stuart King Charles I Rules England
Charles tries to increase his own power and eventually agrees to sign the Petition of Right and give more power to Parliament. Later, though, he dissolves Parliament. -
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The Long Parliament Meets
Charles is eventually forced to call upon Parliament. It becomes known as the Long Parliament, and steadily works to increase its power. -
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The English Civil War Breaks Out
War breaks out in England between Parliament's Roundheads, led by Oliver Cromwell, and Charles I's Cavaliers. Oliver Cromwell leads the Roundheads to victory, and, in 1649, Charles is tried and executed. -
Execution of Charles I
Charles is tried and convicted of high treason. He is later beheaded. -
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English Commonwealth Begins & Ends
The monarchy and the House of Lords are abolished. Parliament rules the Commonwealth, with Oliver Cromwell as leader. Upon his death in 1658, the Commonwealth dissolves into disorder. -
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The Monarchy is Restored
Charles II works with Parliament to restore England, but clashes with Parliament over religious disputes. He later dissolved Parliament in 1678. James II, his successor, continued to push for Catholic power, sparking outrage and backlash. -
The Glorious Revolution Assures Parliament's Power
William III and Mary II become the ruling monarchs of England and agree to Parliament's insistence that they have limited power. -
James II Flees England