-
1066
Establishment of the Feudal System
William of Normandy established the feudal system in which a leader (the monarch) has rule over the high class people, whole rule over the peasants (citizens). He brought religion and the concept of monarchs into the picture. This marks the beginning of the original form of government that goes to be transformed into a more limited state. This is the starting point. -
Jun 15, 1215
Magna Carta Signing
The Magna Carter was the first of the English documents to begin to limit the power of the monarch. King John was forced to sign it. This document gave citizens specific rights protected and stated that the King must follow the law. This took away from the absolute power of English monarchs of the time and for years to come. -
Passage of the Petition of Right
Charles I was attempting to gain funds from Parliament to support the Thirty Year's War. The Parliament refused to offer such aid until the King agreed to signing their "contract". This took away the power to tax unreasonably, force quarter troops, imprison without cause, and use martial law. The Petition of Right was another way that the monarch was limited. This is the first time the powers of Parliament are legitimatized. -
Long Parliament
Long Parliament began under the Charles I. He wanted taxation of ship money, but once called, Parliament had another agenda. Parliament took action impeaching and setting laws and convicting the corrupt government of treason. This event is important because Parliament made the law that Parliament can't be shut down or ended at the monarchs desire. This gave Parliament a permanent position in government, more than just at the beck and call of the monarch. -
Execution of Charles I
Parliament established their dominance over the monarch by executing Charles I. He was the first monarch to be tried and executed for high treason. This led to Parliament gaining the right to check the power of the monarch. They get to approve and disprove of the monarchs actions, even decide if and who gets the throne. -
Charles II Signs Declaration of Breda
Charles II assumes the throne after the beheading of Charles I and a period of exile. When he does, he declares that he will take the throne under the circumstances that Parliament and the people wanted. He pardons war enemies, pays soldiers, and promotes religious tolerance. This is a big step towards limited monarchy because the monarchy isn't assuming the throne with absolute power. He claims the throne under the circumstances of listening to the people. -
English Bill of Rights
The English Bill of Rights set aside rights for the people and Parliament alike. This document limited the power of the monarch because it no longer allowed leaders to infringe on people's rights. It gave specific roles and jobs that were limited to Parliament which furthered the progression away from absolutism.
