British History: The Origins of Parliament

Learn about the creation of the English Parliament, from Edward I's Model Parliament in 1295 to the permanent establishment of the House of Commons and House of Lords. Discover how representatives of counties and towns became a permanent part of Parliament.

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Questions and Answers

What was the immediate outcome of the 1215 Magna Carta as a peace treaty?

It was declared invalid by the Pope

What was the significance of the 39th clause of the Magna Carta?

It ensured that no man shall be arrested or imprisoned except by the lawful judgement of his peers or by the law of the land

What was the purpose of the Shire reeves sending elected representatives to consult with the king in 1254?

To discuss issues related to taxation

What was the outcome of the noblemen's meeting at Oxford in 1258?

A new legislative body, Parliament, was established Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the Magna Carta in the development of English Law?

It stated that the rule of law could overrule the king Signup and view all the answers

What was the composition of Parliament by 1295?

Nobles, bishops, and two representatives from each county Signup and view all the answers

What was the limitation on the monarch's power established by the Magna Carta?

The monarch's power was limited by the need for common consent of the kingdom Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the 12th clause of the Magna Carta?

It ensured that taxes could only be levied with the common consent of the kingdom Signup and view all the answers

Who reissued the Magna Carta after its initial failure?

Henry III Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the Magna Carta in the development of traditional English respect for individual rights and liberties?

It is the major source of traditional English respect for individual rights and liberties Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Development of English Parliament

In 1295, Edward I called the Model Parliament, which included Nobles, Knights, and Burgesses (commoners from villages or burghs), to support his war with France.

House of Commons and House of Lords

The House of Commons was created in the 1300s by Burgesses, Knights, and leading citizens.
The House of Lords consisted of Nobles and Bishops.

Three Conflicts with Monarch and Parliament

Puritans wanted a more fundamental version of the English Church, opposing King James I's rule (1603-1625).
King James I used his private court (Star Chamber) and ignored the parliamentary court system of Common Law.
King James I wanted more money for wars and a more extravagant life, which led to conflicts with Parliament.

House of Commons Gains Power

The House of Commons controlled the Power of the Purse, raising taxes for the government and wars.
Both Houses met in the House of Commons, growing in strength.

King Charles I and Parliament

King Charles I (1625-1649) wanted absolute rule and the Divine Right of Kings, opposed by Parliament.
Charles I was forced to sign the Petition of Right, ensuring no taxation without Parliament's consent or illegal imprisonment of citizens.
Charles I dismissed Parliament in 1629 but recalled them in 1640 when Scotland invaded, leading to the Civil War (1642-1649).

The Magna Carta

In 1215, King John of England faced opposition from Barons due to heavy taxation and harsh punishments for non-payment.
The Barons created the Magna Carta, a 63-clause contract limiting the monarch's power.
The Magna Carta stated that the rule of Law could overrule the king and protected individual rights and liberties.
Magna Carta was reissued under Henry III (1216-1272) and Edward I (1272-1307), becoming part of English Law.