-
Europe: Bill of Rights in England
In the late 1600s, power in England was transferred from the monarchy to Parliament.
In 1689, Parliament offered the crown to the Dutch prince William of Orange and imposed him the Bill of Rights, which stated that it was illegal for the king to raise taxes or introduce laws without Parliament's consent. -
Period: to
Europe: War of the Spanish Succession and Treaty of Utrecht.
It was caused by a confrontation between two candidates to the trone after Carlos II died: Philip of Bourbon (France) and Charles of Habsburg (Austria)
It ended in 1713 with the Treaty of Utrecht. Felipe V was recognised as king in exchange for territory in Europe and Spain -
Period: to
Spain: Decretos de Nueva Planta
The Decretos de Nueva Palnta were executed. The privileges and institutions of the territories of the Crown of Aragón were abolished and imposed the Castilian administrative system. -
Europe: Publication of the Encyclopédie.
Philosophers and scientists collaborated in the creation of the Encyclopédie. It aimed to bring together the knowledge of the time. They also wanted to present critical ideas from Enlightement philosophers on stratified society and absolutism. -
Europe and US: Boston Tea Party
The 13 British colonies in North America were unhappy with Britain because they were not allowed to send representatives to Parliament and for imposing commercial monopolies and taxes (specially on tea). A monopoly on the sale of tea to a British company caused a rebellion in Boston. King George III sent an army to end the rebellion. -
Europe and US: The Independence of the USA
To oppose against Britain, delegates from the 13 colonies met in Philadelphia and drafted the United Staes Declaration of Independence. After a long war, Britain recognised the colonies' independence in 1783. George Washington became the first president of the US in 1789. -
US: The United States Constitution
After independence, the US created a written constitution that ensured the separation of powers, established a republican government headed by an elected president with broad powers, and a federal system of government.
It was completed with a Bill of Rights, which guaranteed freedom of religion, press, speech and assembly and the right to trial by jury. It also was stated that no one could be prived of life, liberty or property without proper court proceedings.