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Jun 15, 1215
Magna Carta
King John of England was forced by rebellious barons to sign the Magna Carta, which placed limits on royal authority and established certain legal rights for nobles. Although initially not a success, it laid the foundation for future constitutional reforms. Magna Carta is considered the first step toward limiting monarchical power by establishing the principle that the king is subject to the law. -
1534
English Reformation
King Henry VIII's break from the Roman Catholic Church and the establishment of the Church of England under royal control. The Act of Supremacy made Henry the head of the church, reducing the influence of the Pope. The Reformation in England strengthened royal authority but also sowed the seeds of political and religious conflict, which later contributed to calls for limiting royal powers. -
The Petition of Right
Parliament presented this document to King Charles I, demanding an end to non-parliamentary taxation, arbitrary imprisonment, and the imposition of martial law during peacetime. This marked an important assertion of Parliament's rights, setting the stage for future conflicts between the monarchy and Parliament that would culminate in the Civil War. -
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The English Civil War
A series of armed conflicts between Royalists (supporters of King Charles I) and Parliamentarians, who sought greater parliamentary control over the monarchy. The defeat of Charles I led to his execution and the temporary abolition of the monarchy, drastically reshaping the political landscape of England. -
The Execution of Charles 1
After losing the Civil War, Charles I was tried for treason and executed. His death marked the first time a reigning English monarch was publicly tried and executed. This event symbolized the temporary end of absolute monarchy in England and highlighted the growing power of Parliament. -
The Restoration of the Monarchy
Charles II was invited back to the throne after the collapse of the Commonwealth. However, the restored monarchy was constrained by many of the lessons learned during the Civil War. The Restoration acknowledged that while the monarchy could be reinstated, it would not regain its previous absolute authority, paving the way for further limitations on royal power. -
The Bill of Rights
he overthrow of King James II and the ascension of William III and Mary II to the throne. The Bill of Rights passed shortly after formalized limits on royal power and affirmed parliamentary authority. The Glorious Revolution marked the final shift to a constitutional monarchy, where the power of the monarchy was legally limited, and parliamentary sovereignty was established.