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Jun 15, 1215
Magna carta
The Magna Carta was a document given to the King in 1215 by the tenants-in-chief, who were a coucil created by William of Normandy to advise him on the making of laws. This Document was one of the first lists of rights of the Englishmen. It declared that the King cannot create or collect taxes, unless he has the consent of Parliament. John, who was King at the time, was forced into signing. This council became the first Parliament -
English Civil War
The English Civil War began when Charles II constructed an army against Parliament in attempt to overrun them. He did not want to have to sign their documents and hand over his rights, but he could not carry out what he wanted to do with them in his way. Parliament struck back and defeated Charles, making the Parliament even stronger and have an even larger influence in England -
Execution of King Charles II
After Parliament won the civil war, Oliver Cromwell took control of England. He immediately sentenced Charles to death for treason against Parliament. This marked that you could be punished for going against the orders of Parliament, even if you were the King. -
Habeas Corpus Act
Habeas Corpus states that a criminal must get a just trial at Court before being imprisoned. The Habeas Corpus Act, passed by Parliament, reinforced this principle while they were under the reign of Charles II. -
The Glorious Revolution
Also known as the Revolution of 1688, The Glorious Revolution occured when William and Mary overthrew King James, with the help of parliament, to become the rulers of England. James had been controversial and unwelcomed because of his policies of religious tolerance. This revolution was important for the progress of England towards a limited Monarchy because it brought to power two rulers who supported this form of government. -
English Bill of Rights
The English Bill of Rights was the final and major step taken towards becoming a limited monarchy. It was presented to William and Mary when they took over. It limits the monarch's powers and shares the powers with parliament such as:
-parliamentary elections
-right to petition the monarchy
-no royal interference with the law
-no raising an army without the consent of parliament -
Act of Settlement
The Act of Settlement continued and ensured the success and installment of a limited monarchy. After the failure of William and Mary, England asked Scotalnd to join with them to become the United Kingdom and leave the Stuart family. they eventually agreed and had a "parliamentary union of the two countries".
