How did England become a Constitutional Monarchy?

Big Picture Absolute monarchy-> Civil War-> Commonwealth-> Restoration (return to absolute monarchy)-> Glorious Revolution-> Constitutional monarchy

Absolute monarchy: Divine right Magna Carta- 1215 Petition of Right- 1628

Civil War: Immediate Cause: a fight over money and power in 1642

Civil War: Teams: Royalists v. Roundheads English Civil War-- 1642- 1649 Teams: Royalists v. Roundheads Long Parliament “took over” gov’t– like the Continental Congress Oliver Cromwell led the New Model Army of professional soldiers—like George Washington

Civil War: At York, Charles I was captured and later tried for treason and executed.

The Commonwealth Oliver Cromwell declared Lord Protector, ruled as a dictator 1649- 1660 Abolished the monarchy Abolished Parliament The Instrument of Government- a constitution Cultural Reformation- imposed Puritan beliefs and ideals

The Instrument of Government Article I- The Supreme legislative authority… shall… reside in one person… the Lord Protector. Article VIII- The Parliament to be next summoned… shall (not be)… dissolved without their own consent.

Restoration: The Restoration: Return to Monarchy Parliament was peacefully reestablished after the Puritan government collapsed in 1660 Parliament asked Charles II to rule, with limited power

Charles II and James II

The Glorious Revolution Problem: 1673- Parliament passed the Test Act- only Protestants can hold office or serve with the military. James II’s new baby will be a Catholic! To prevent future religious problems, Parliament asked William and Mary to rule– if they agree to the Bill of Rights, 1689

William III and Mary II

Constitutional Monarchy The Bill of Rights: states that PARLIAMENT is the main law making body in government! Laws now limit the ruler’s power no more absolute monarchy in England