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Jun 15, 1215
Magna Carta Signed
The Magna Carta is created by feudal barons who aim to limit the powers of King John and protect the their own rights. It is considered one of the first steps taken towards a constitutional monarchy in England. -
Charles I becomes King
After the death of his father, James VI and I, Charles I becomes King. He encounters many conflicts with Parliament over the issue of taxes and eventually dissolves Parliament and makes a ruling without their consent. This ignites a fierce debate over parliamentary powers vs. royal powers. -
Signing of Petition of Right
The Petition is ratified by both the House of Lords and Commons in order to reinstate the authority of Parliament and reaffirm the rights of English citizens. This serves as a warning to Charles I of Parliament’s power. -
English Civil War Begins
Tensions between the King and Parliament boil over, culminating in the English Civil War. The opposing sides consist of the Royalists who are loyal to the monarchy and the Parliamentarians (or Roundheads) who wanted Parliament to control the executive power in England. -
English Commonwealth Created
Following the execution of Charles I, the ruling Rump Parliament proclaims England to be a Commonwealth. Later on, it is led by Oliver Cromwell. Although he was styled as "Lord Protector", he created a military dictatorship and ruled over the Commonwealth with an iron fist. -
Monarchy is restored
After the death of Cromwell, the monarchy is restored when Charles II assumes the throne. Charles encounters problems with Parliament during his reign. He is followed by Catholic brother, James, who politicians and commoners dislike. During the Glorious Revolution, James is overthrown by his daughter Mary and her husband, William of Orange. They become joint monarchs. -
Bill of Rights is passed
William & Mary accept the English Bill of Rights in 1689. The document sets out to limit the powers of the monarchy and outline the powers and rights held by Parliament. It also gave rights back to English Protestants that were taken away by James II. The Bill was influenced by the ideas of John Locke and is still being used in England today.
