Steps to a Limited Monarchy

By pnadig
  • Jun 15, 1215

    Magna Carta

    Magna Carta
    King John II failed to defeat nobles who were upset due to his high taxes. The Magna Carta told of liberties the people would be free to enjoy and promises between the governed and the King. This limited the power of the monarch as there was a charter in place to protect the people's rights.
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  • Dec 14, 1264

    Parliament is established

    Parliament is established
    Parliament being established limited the power of the King because it provided a system of checks and balances. Both the House of Commons and the House of Lords gave the people a voice, removing some voice from the King.
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  • Petition of Right

    Petition of Right
    The Petition of Right gave Parliament the right to approve taxes over the King, meaning that the King could not longer levy taxes. This limited the power of the King as a more democratic branch of government handled taxes.
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  • Long Parliament

    Long Parliament
    Charles I called Parliament into session because he needed to raise money for a war against Scotland, however Parliament passed a resolution saying that Parliament may not be dissolved instead. It made it necessary for Parliament to meet frequently and defied the previous systems through this way.
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  • Charles I's execution

    Charles I's execution
    This event showed that the people, if not content with the King, were not just going to sit back and take it. Charles tried to abuse his power and the people killed him for it. The English people were done believing in the divine right to rule and allow monarchs to do whatever they please.
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  • Glorious Revolution

    Glorious Revolution
    This was when Parliament took complete control of a situation and ousted King James II who attempted to overextend his reach on the people. William and Mary then took over the throne and worked with Parliament to further their goals rather than working against Parliament.
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  • The English Bill of Rights

    The English Bill of Rights
    This Bill made some of James II's act illegal and once again madee the monarchy weaker while strengthening Parliament. Levying taxes and maintaining an army during peace time were outlawed, and Parliament was guaranteed freedom of speech. .
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