British Sovereignty, Authority & Power

British Legitimacy gradualism Legitimacy of the British government has developed/changed gradually (gradualism) Shifting power from a Monarchy based on traditional legitimacy to a legislature (Parliament) based on rational-legal authority. Britain is now a Parliamentary Democracy & a Constitutional Monarchy

British Gradualism Ironically this shift of power is not based on a written Constitution – they don’t have one! Constitution of the Crown – establishment of political practice/rules through important documents, common law, and customs.

Constitution of the Crown Important Political Documents/Developments 1. Common Law – legal system based on local customs and precedent. o Allows decisions made by officials and courts to set precedents, forming principles for governance. English Common Law was established under King Henry II in the 12 th century

Constitution of the Crown Important Political Documents/Developments 2. Magna Carta – document that made the monarchy consult English nobles before political decisions (i.e. taxes) were be made. o Formed the basis of limited government & monarchy King John (1215) signs the Magna Carta

Constitution of the Crown Important Political Documents/Developments 3. The Bill of Rights – document that listed rights retained by Parliament Power of the Purse o Gave important policymaking power, including “Power of the Purse” to Parliament William & Mary signed the Bill of Rights after overthrowing the Absolute Monarch (the Glorious Revolution).