English Limited Monarchy

The Magna Carta is Signed

Jun 15, 1215

Signed by King John of England, this document limits the power of the monarchy.

The Petition of Right is Published

Jun 7, 1628

This document limits the power of the king over taxation, military and the judiciary.

The Petition of Right is Defied

1629

King Charles decides to impose taxes despite the petition of right. To quell the outrage, he uses martial law, also prohibited by the petition.

English Civil War

1642

After neglecting Parliment for a decade, Charles and Parliment came into conflict directly. The war was won by Parliment, increasing their future powers.

King Charles Executed

Jan 30, 1649

After the war between Parliment and the King, Charles lost the war and was found guilty of Treason. His death symbolized the fact that the King is under the law and limited by Parliment.

Writ of Habeaus Corpus

May 27, 1679

Established that prisoners could challenge detention. Prevented jailors from moving prisoners around. Increased people rights of those of government or monarch to imprison.

English Bill of Rights

Dec 16, 1689

Seperated power of Parliment and King, increases the power of election. Continues to limit the power of the monarch and increase that of the people.