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Jun 1, 1215
Magna Carta
King John unwillingly signed the Magna Carta on this date, for the first time limiting the King's power within his reign over a country. The document also created a basis for what was to become the English Parliament. -
Charles' Third Parliament
Charles I called upon Parliament asking for funding for the third time and was once again denied. This time though, the Parliament said they would give Charles the money if he agreed to the Petition of Right, listing a set a rules giving the Parliament more power. Charles agreed, but he did not adhere to the petition and later dissolved Parliament. -
The Long Parliament
Charles I again called Parliament together, this time to ask for funding of the conflict he had created with the Scottish people. Parliament agreed to give him some money, but in exchange for the removal of some of Charles' advisors, including William Laud who was moved to the Tower of London and later executed. -
Grand Remonstrance
The English Parliament created the Grand Remonstrance, listing their issues with Charles' way of governing England. Charles I refused to sign the document, thus causing the beginning of the English civil war. -
Charles I executed
Charles I is executed on this date after being captured, officially ending the civil war. Oliver Cromwell becomes Lord Protector of England shortly after and begins the first period in England's history to have a governent without a monarchy. -
The Glorious Revolution
William of Orange officially supports the attack in England upon the monarchy, he is later appointed king. He and his wife, Mary, agree to the Bill of Rights with the Parliament allowing for a more equal partnership in governing the country. -
King George I Coronation
George I was coronated as King of Great Britain on this date, symbolizing the end of an era of a monarchy-dominated government within England. King George was the beginning of the Hanover reign which shared more power with the Parliament and helped found the government that currently exists today.
