Seven Steps to a Limited Monarchy

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    Charles I Reign

    Charles I became King of England on March 27, 1625, and quickly tried to increase his power. Due to his belief in the Divine Right of Kings and his absolute power, he attempted to bypass Parliament and make them obsolete. He tried to carry out his rule without any interruption or hindrance. This conflict between the King and Parliament was what led to the English Civil War. He lost and was executed on January 30, 1649.
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    The English Civil War

    The English Civil War broke out as a result of Charles I and Parliament's disputes over the rights of the King and the limit of their power.
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    Oliver Cromwell's Control of England

    Oliver Cromwell deposed Charles I and became ruler and Protector of England on December 16, 1653. However, he quickly became just as ruthless as the previous King and his popularity declined. Soon, people wanted a return to the monarchy. He died on September 3, 1658.
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    King James II Reign

    King James II (VII in Scotland) was a Catholic King in charge of England. He was deposed in the Glorious Revolution by William III of Orange and Mary, who were Protestants. His reign represents both religious and political struggles in England of this time.
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    Glorious Revolution

    Also called the bloodless revolution, this was a relatively peaceful (except for revolts in Scotland and Ireland) transfer of power from King James II (VII in Scotland) to William III of Orange and Mary.
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    William III of Orange and Mary Rule England

    They took over after the Glorious Revolution and enacted the English Bill of Rights to codify the rules of government and protect certain rights. Their rule represents an end to Absolutism in England and the start of limited monarchy.
  • English Bill of Rights

    The English Bill of Rights ensured the powers and legality of Parliament, and it forever limited England's monarchy. It allowed for certain rights and ensured that Kings had to seek approval from Parliament before enacting any legislation.