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1215
Magna Carta
Document signed in 1215 by King John in response to demands by his barons. It created and established the idea that the King is not above his subjects, and instated the concept of checks and balances. -
1295
Model Parliament
The Model Parliament of 1295 was the first effort in England to create a representative government. King Edward I summoned a collection of nobles and commoners to represent the public while making political decisions. -
The Petition of Right
The Petition of Right was a 1628 document created in England restricting the rights of the King. It outlawed arbitrary taxation and prosecution without due process. It also helped to instate a representative government, which influenced political decisions. -
English Civil War
The English Civil War was a 17th century struggle over the balance of power between the Parliament and the monarchy. It resulted in the execution of King Charles I and temporarily abolished the monarchy. -
Glorious Revolution
The Glorious Revolution was a transition of power between the established monarchy and William of Orange. The move inspired the Bill of Rights and expanded the publics power and representative government. -
Act of Union
The Act of Union consolidated Scotland and England into Great Britain. This consolidation created a merged Parliament and contributed the further representation. -
Acts of Union
The 1800 Acts of Union consolidated Ireland into the established kingdom of Great Britain. This was later modified, but it was another step away from the monarchy and towards a parliamentary-based government.