English Civil War and Magna Carta Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What was a primary reason for the conflict between Charles I and Parliament?

  • Parliament sought to limit the King's financial independence. (correct)
  • Charles I aimed to dissolve Parliament permanently.
  • Charles I wanted to increase his royal prerogatives.
  • Parliament wanted to support Catholic laws.

What action did Charles I take that escalated tensions with Parliament in 1642?

  • He abolished Parliament altogether.
  • He arrested his political opponents. (correct)
  • He formed alliances with Catholic nations.
  • He raised taxes illegally.

Which event marked the start of the English Civil War?

  • The King's arrest of Parliament members.
  • The Parliamentary refusal to raise taxes.
  • The King's demand for money to fight Scottish rebels.
  • The King's declaration of war on his own subjects. (correct)

What did Parliament demand from Charles I before agreeing to raise taxes?

<p>Regular calls for Parliament sessions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the period known as 'The 11 Years of Tyranny'?

<p>Charles I ruling with absolute power without Parliament. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant event did William the Conqueror lead in 1066?

<p>The defeat of King Harold (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions characterized King John's abuse of power?

<p>Confiscating lands from nobles (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the main outcome of the Baron's rebellion in 1215?

<p>King John signed the Magna Carta (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle established by the Magna Carta is considered a foundational aspect of modern law?

<p>Rule of law (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the Magna Carta require the king to do regarding the Church?

<p>Respect the freedom of the Church (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following rights was NOT guaranteed by the Magna Carta?

<p>Voting rights for women (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the immediate reaction of the Pope to the Magna Carta?

<p>He rejected it (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did King John's signing of the Magna Carta represent a shift in governance?

<p>It signaled a move toward individual liberty (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main objective of the Scottish National Party (SNP)?

<p>Scottish independence (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which party was previously led by Nigel Farage before becoming Reform UK?

<p>The Brexit Party (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is the current leader of the Labour Party?

<p>Keir Starmer (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main policy objective of Plaid Cymru?

<p>Welsh autonomy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which party is known for its opposition to abortion and gay marriage?

<p>Democratic Unionist Party (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant change did Henry VII implement to limit noble power?

<p>Established a royal army (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which event marked the end of the War of the Roses?

<p>The marriage of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the causes for Henry VIII's break from the Catholic Church?

<p>Need for a male heir (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was established by Henry VIII that allowed him to govern with more control?

<p>The Privy Council (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What act officially unified Wales and England under Henry VIII?

<p>Act of Union (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant impact did Henry VII have on the feudal system?

<p>Ended the feudal system (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which English monarch replaced the Pope with himself as the head of the Church?

<p>Henry VIII (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a consequence of Henry VIII's marital issues with Catherine of Aragon?

<p>Establishment of the Anglican Church (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of King James II's attempt to relax anti-Catholic laws?

<p>Conflict arose between James II and Parliament. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary function of the Commonwealth established in 1649?

<p>To replace the monarchy with a Council of State. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes the Bill of Rights of 1689?

<p>It established certain rights that the crown cannot violate. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What marked the beginning of regular institutions between Parliament and the monarchy?

<p>The Bill of Rights of 1689. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant change in the relationship between the monarchy and Parliament after the Civil War?

<p>Parliament gained the authority to legislate on religious matters. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who succeeded Oliver Cromwell after his inability to maintain power?

<p>Charles II. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition had to be met before William and Mary were crowned as monarchs?

<p>They had to agree to the Declaration of Rights. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant contribution of the Declaration of Rights?

<p>It claimed Parliament's rights and established a constitutional framework. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key principle established about the heads of state in modern constitutions?

<p>They must be subject to the law. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does parliamentary sovereignty imply about laws passed by Parliament?

<p>They cannot be challenged in court unless they violate another act of Parliament. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately reflects the nature of the British monarchy today?

<p>The monarchy serves as a ceremonial figure. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What change in the British monarchy occurred with the reign of King George I?

<p>Power was shifted to a group of ministers. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can Parliament be described in terms of its structure?

<p>It consists of two interdependent chambers. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining characteristic of the British Constitution compared to the American Constitution?

<p>It is flexible and uncodified. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following rights are guaranteed to citizens in modern constitutions?

<p>Certain rights cannot be taken away. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant restriction placed on succession to the British throne by the Act of Settlement (1701)?

<p>Only legitimate heirs can succeed. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Norman Invasion

The Norman invasion of 1066, led by William the Conqueror, brought significant changes to the political and social landscape of England. William defeated King Harold, establishing a feudal system where noble families were granted land in exchange for loyalty and military service.

Feudalism

A system of government where land is granted in return for loyalty, military service, and other obligations. The Norman invasion established a feudal system in England.

Magna Carta

The Magna Carta, a document signed by King John in 1215, limited the king's power and established important legal principles. It was a major step towards individual liberty.

King John

King John, notorious for his tyranny, faced a rebellion from nobles who forced him to sign the Magna Carta. He also lost significant French territories, contributing to his unpopularity.

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Rule of Law

The Magna Carta established the principle that the king is subject to the law, a key aspect of the rule of law.

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Habeas Corpus

One of the key provisions of the Magna Carta, it guaranteed a right to a trial before being imprisoned, a crucial step towards due process.

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Council of 25 Barons

The Magna Carta established the necessity of a council of 25 barons to advise the king and ensure compliance with its provisions. This council can be seen as a precursor to the modern-day Parliament.

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Significance of Magna Carta

The Magna Carta, despite its initial challenges, had a significant impact on the long-term development of English law and government. It established fundamental principles that influenced future generations.

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War of the Roses

A period of civil war in England between 1455 and 1485, fought between the House of Lancaster and the House of York, both vying for control of the English throne.

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Tudor Dynasty

The dynasty that ruled England from 1485 to 1603, starting with Henry VII, who ended the War of the Roses.

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Henry VII

The king who ended the feudal system in England by establishing a royal army, limiting royal spending, and creating a court to try traitors.

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Act of Union

The act passed in 1536 that officially combined Wales and England, creating a larger kingdom.

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Privy Council

A cabinet-style council created by Henry VIII to assist him in governing.

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Act of Supremacy

The Act passed in 1534 that declared Henry VIII the head of the Church of England, effectively separating from the authority of the Pope in Rome.

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Church of England

The English Protestant church established under Henry VIII after the break with the Roman Catholic Church.

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Reformation

The historical period marked by the Reformation, which led to the establishment of Protestantism and the separation from the Catholic Church.

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Contractual Relationship with the King

The belief in a contractual relationship between the king and his subjects, where the king does not hold absolute authority.

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The Eleven Years of Tyranny

The period in English history (1629-1640) when Charles I ruled without Parliament, leading to accusations of tyranny.

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Prorogation of Parliament

A parliamentary session is brought to an end, effectively stopping its proceedings.

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English Civil War

The English Civil War, a conflict between the Royalists (supporters of Charles I) and the Parliamentarians (supporters of Parliament) from 1642 to 1651.

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Parliament's Refusal to Raise Taxes

When the Parliament refused to raise taxes unless the King agreed to call Parliament more regularly, this marked a significant shift in power towards Parliament.

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The Conservative Party

A political party in the UK known for its right-wing stance and support of limited government intervention. They are currently the opposition party, led by Rishi Sunak.

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The Liberal Democrats

This party in the UK emphasizes social justice and seeks to balance individual liberty with government intervention in promoting equality.

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The Scottish National Party (SNP)

This party advocates for Scottish independence and opposes policies perceived as imposed by the central government in London, often referred to as 'London law'.

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The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP)

This party is known for its strong advocacy for maintaining Northern Ireland's position within the UK and upholding conservative social values.

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Sinn Féin

A political party in the UK that advocates for the reunification of Northern Ireland with the Republic of Ireland. They are known for their commitment to Irish unity.

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Right to Rebellion

The right of a citizen to oppose the head of state and replace them if their rights are violated.

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Parliamentary Sovereignty

The British system of government, based on the idea that Parliament holds the ultimate power.

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Ceremonial Monarchy

The British Monarchy, with little real power, serves as a symbol of national identity and tradition.

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House of Commons

The lower house of Parliament, comprised of elected members who represent the people.

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House of Lords

The upper house of Parliament, consisting of Lords, appointed or inherited.

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The Legislative Branch (Parliament)

The branch of government responsible for creating laws. It is the most powerful element of the British system.

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British Constitution

A collection of laws, customs, and traditions that form the basis for the British government. It hasn't been formally written down in one document.

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Heads of State are Subject to the Law

The principle that the British Monarch must follow the law, just like any other citizen.

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The English Commonwealth

This period saw the execution of King Charles I by Parliament, establishing the Commonwealth of England as a republic under the leadership of Oliver Cromwell.

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Challenges to the Commonwealth

Cromwell's rule faced challenges due to divisions between radicals who wanted further reforms and conservatives who favored a return to monarchy. Ultimately, this division led to instability after Cromwell's death, paving the way for the restoration of the monarchy.

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The Restoration of the Monarchy

After the Commonwealth, Charles II was invited back to take the throne, marking the restoration of the monarchy. However, Parliament held significantly more power than it had before the civil war.

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James II and Religious Freedom

James II, the successor to Charles II, faced conflict over religious freedom due to his Catholic beliefs and attempts to relax anti-Catholic laws, leading to tensions with the Parliament.

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The Glorious Revolution

Parliament's opposition to James II's policies led to the offer of the throne to William of Orange, who was married to James II's daughter, Mary. This resulted in James II fleeing, and William and Mary becoming King and Queen.

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Declaration of Rights

The declaration asserted Parliament's rights and was agreed upon by William and Mary before their coronation. It eventually evolved into the Bill of Rights.

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The Bill of Rights (1689)

This key document established the principle of parliamentary sovereignty, where laws made by Parliament could only be overturned by Parliament itself. This limited the power of the monarchy and empowered Parliament.

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Parliament's Power in the Bill of Rights

Parliament's role was significantly strengthened, with the right to consent to laws, raise taxes, and the ability to hold regular elections.

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Study Notes

Introduction to British and American Political Institutions

  • British institutions are studied in part 1
  • Lectures include the monarchy, Parliament, the executive, devolution, and Brexit
  • UK is a constitutional monarchy, power shared with constitutionally organised government

The Monarchy

  • Head of state is a monarch, power shared with organised government
  • Role of the sovereign is highly symbolic in the three branches of government
  • Executive branch: King/Queen appoints Prime Minister and Cabinet
  • Legislative branch: Sovereign approves bills passed by Parliament to become law (Royal Assent) Opens and prorogues Parliament each year
  • Judicial branch: Sovereign appoints judges
  • Sovereign is head of the armed forces, but real power in the executive branch rests with the government

The Sovereign and the Executive Branch

  • Her/His Majesty's Government (HM Government) holds real power
  • Sovereign appoints the Prime Minister and Cabinet
  • Excerpt of The Queen (2006): describes theoretical role of appointment
  • Excerpt of The Crown (Margaret Thatcher): discusses royal prerogative, rights and special powers of the King/Queen

The Sovereign and the Legislative Branch

  • Sovereign needs to approve bills, (Royal Assent), to become law
  • All laws are made in the Sovereign's name
  • Sovereign opens and prorogues each Parliament session
  • Stated Opening of Parliament: ceremony where Sovereign explains government plans for the coming year (The King's speech)
  • Excerpt of the Stated Opening: describes this ceremony

The Sovereign and the Judicial Branch

  • Sovereign is the source of justice
  • Sovereign appoints most important judges
  • Courts function in the name of the Sovereign
  • Criminal cases initiated by the Crown Prosecution Service

History of the Monarchy

  • Monarchy relied on the feudal system
  • Norman invasion (1066): William the Conqueror gained control of England and Wales
  • Feudal system: noble families rewarded with land in exchange for protection and services
  • Relations between king and nobles often problematic, abuse of royal power
  • 1215: Magna Carta forces King John to sign a document limiting his power
  • Magna Carta set 6 essential principles: fundamental rights, limiting the king's power
  • Tudors: consolidate royal power, end feudal system, expand royal army
  • Henry VIII: break from the Catholic Church, Parliament's increasing power
  • Stuarts: conflict with Parliament (English Civil War), resulting in Parliamentary sovereignty.
  • 1688, The Glorious Revolution: King James II's power limited, Parliament's power increased, Bill of Rights established

The English Civil War and the Commonwealth

  • Charles I's attempt to rule without Parliament, leading to the English Civil War
  • Parliament wins, England becomes a Commonwealth under Oliver Cromwell
  • King is executed, monarchy is replaced by a council
  • Monarchy restored in 1660 with Charles II
  • Conflict over religious freedom and relations with Parliament during the reign of James II, leading to the Glorious Revolution in 1688,

The Restoration and the Glorious Revolution

  • Parliament invites a king back, Charles II to resume the throne
  • Parliament gains more power, becomes sovereign
  • Conflict with King James II over religious freedom. Leads to Parliament deposing James II.
  • Offering William and Mary the throne. Parliament's power becomes supreme
  • Bill of Rights ensures Parliament's role becomes supreme. Establishes right of citizens to freely assemble, free elections, protection against excessive punishment, and parliamentary sovereignty

How the Government is Formed

  • The party leader becomes Prime Minister after winning elections
  • Historical shift from monarchical power to Prime Minister power, seen after The Glorious Revolution when the Bill of Rights was signed.
  • Monarch appoints Prime Minister from the majority party in Parliament
  • Prime Minister leads the executive branch

Prime Minister's Powers and Roles

  • Appoints government
  • Oversees government policy
  • Represents the UK internationally
  • Makes important appointments
  • Chairs cabinet meetings
  • Decides the cabinet's priorities
  • Can change the composition of the cabinet
  • Power to set up public inquiries (e.g., Grenfell Tower fire inquiry)

The Cabinet and the Civil Service

  • Cabinet composed of most important government ministers
  • Assisted by ministers of state
  • Control government departments
  • Policy objective discussion, taxation, and government spending
  • Civil service includes experts providing advice
  • Civil service members support ministers, but not always experts in their field

The Shadow Cabinet

  • Opposition in the UK
  • Proposes alternative policies
  • Assists in the questions-and-answers session between Prime Minister and parliamentarians
  • Preparing to become the governing party

Devolution: A United Kingdom?

  • Scotland, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland = United Kingdom
  • Each nation has distinct origins and cultures
  • Wales occupied by England, led to the Act of Union in 1536
  • England's attempts to control Scotland varied in nature, led to a personal union in 1603, then full union in 1707
  • Ireland fought for independence, but remained part of the UK until 1921.
  • Historical conflicts and disagreements among different regions influenced their current positions in the UK

Common Law and the Judicial Branch

  • Common law is law developed through court decisions (case law), not only statutes
  • Precedents: court decisions binding on future cases
  • Common law exists in UK and countries it colonised
  • Civil law systems rely on codified laws
  • Law areas governed by common law (contract, tort, succession, aspects of criminal law)

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Description

Test your knowledge on crucial events leading to the English Civil War and the foundational aspects of the Magna Carta. Explore the conflict between Charles I and Parliament, and understand the significance of key historical documents and events. This quiz highlights pivotal moments and principles that shaped modern governance.

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