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Period: 1215 to
Steps to Limited Monarchy
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Jun 15, 1215
Magna Carta Issued
The Magna Carta was made and issued by English Barons in 1215 who sought to limit the power of English kings. Through the Magna Carta kings had the responsibility of adhering to the wishes of the people (habeas corpus). -
1295
Model Parliament Convenes
The Model Parliament is widely considered the first representative parliament because the lower clergy were in attendance and this is where parliament gained more power. King Edward summoned parliament in this instance, and would set the groundwork the future push towards a limited monarchy. -
1534
The First Act of Supremacy
After the pope refused to allow King Henry VIII to marry Anne Boleyn. Henry cut all of England's ties to the Catholic Church, and would create a state led church. Now all political and religious power was held by the monarchy, which would in turn create conflict. -
Long Parliament Convenes
Long parliament was called on by King Charles I so they could approve revenue expenditures. They would go further and create reforms on the King. This Parliament would ultimately execute the king. -
Execution of Charles I
In Charles I rule on multiple occasions he dissolved Parliament and he believed in an absolute monarchy. The struggle between Parliament and monarchy led to Civil War. In the end the monarchy would be abolished, however after Oliver Cromwell's death Charles I son Charles II took power. -
Glorious Revolution
The Catholic King James II was overthrown by English Parliament and the his daughter Mary and her husband William both of whom were Protestant were put into power. Through the rule of William and Mary parliament would gain more power. -
English Bill of Rights
The English Bill of Rights put into place the equal power balance between the monarchy and Parliament. The bill decreed members of parliament be elected and most state functions needed to be approved by Parliament. From this point forward England would remain a limited monarchy.