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Rule of James I
During the Rule of James I, several religious groups began to break their ties with the Church of England. Although James responded to these groups with force, the religious differences resulted in the need for representation in Government, further expanding the role of Parliament. -
Rule of Charles I
During his rule, Charles I sought additional revenues through Parliament, but he refused to compromise with Parliament. Charles I believed in the divine right of the King, even when large amounts of English subjects were dissatisfied with his rule. After ignoring the Petition of Right, Charles I dissolved Parliament in 1640. The rule of Charles I led to the English Civil War and his rule made many prominent English officials distrust the absolute power of the King. -
The Long Parliament
During the Long Parliament, there was widespread support and general unanimity when it convened in November of 1640. Parliament abolished the royal courts of the King and prohibited the levying of new taxes without consent. The Long Parliament was a clear rejection of absolute monarchy. -
The English Civil War
The English Civil War was between the forces of Charles I and the forces of Parliament. After harsh fighting, the forces of Parliament prevailed. This was a major step towards limited monarchy, as Charles I was removed from power and executed, while Parliament further solidified its role in government. -
Development of New Armies
During the second half of the sixteenth century, military costs dramatically increased. As a result, England was forced to raise taxes to finance new weapons and tactics. Traditional sources of revenue could not finance these expenses, so Parliament needed to implement its own taxes. -
The Rule of Oliver Cromwell
Under Oliver Cromwell’s nine year rule, England became a Puritan republic. Although Cromwell ruled as a virtual dictator, his form of government was not a monarchy. Furthermore, although monarchy would eventually be restored, Cromwell’s rule left a lasting effect on English Government, and it was a clear step towards a limited monarchy. -
Rule of William and Mary
William of Orange arrived to England in November of 1688 to preserve its traditional liberties of the Anglican Church and Parliamentary government. Parliament then proclaimed William II and Mary II to the throne. These two new rulers then recognized a Bill of Rights that limited the powers of the monarchy.
