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1215
Magna Carta
This was a peace treaty between the King John and rebel barons. Although the treaty itself failed at first, the document became a precedence for future restrictions of the monarch. It placed the King under the rule of law along with everyone else. -
Petition of Right
This was a statement by Parliament that tried to establish protection for civil liberties. It asserted the sole right of Parliament to approve taxes and banned the King from placing martial law or forcing the quartering of troops. Although King Charles ignored it, this document still contributed to the foundation of a limited government. By giving Parliament control over money, the monarchies power was decreased. -
Long Parliament convenes
This prohibited the King from levying taxes without its consent or dissolving Parliament without its consent. This Parliament began to establish the power of Parliament over the King. Even though King Charles I eventually attacked this Parliament and ignored their wishes, the Parliament and the people were asserting their rights over the King. -
Military Ordinance
This gave Parliament control over the army instead of the King. This was passed after King Charles I tried to arrest some MPs, and this ordinance precipitated the beginning of the English Civil War. Parliament began taking power from the monarchy and giving it to themselves. -
English Civil War
From 1642-1646, the army of King Charles I fought Parliament's army. Parliament won thanks to an alliance with Scotland and the discipline of Oliver Cromwell. With this victory, Cromwell eliminated any King until 1660 and disbanded Parliament to rule by himself. Though Cromwell became a dictator, this war was still important by showing the strength of Parliament and weakening the monarchy. -
Glorious Revolution
The Protestant William of Orange and his wife Mary were invited by Parliament to overthrow the Catholic King James II. The monarchy entered a new phase of cooperation with Parliament, as the tyrannical and all powerful monarchies of the past were done away with. -
English Bill of Rights
This was the most important development in the establishment of a constitutional monarchy in England. The limits of the royals were written into the law, and agreed to by William III and Mary II. The powers of Parliament were increased and individual rights were outlined. The balance of power was established between the monarch and Parliament.
