Democratic Developments in England Ch 1.5

Growth of Royal Power Feudalism loosely organized system of rule powerful local lords divided their landholdings among lesser lords lesser lords (vassals) pledged service and loyalty to the greater lord. William the Conqueror required all vassals to swear first allegiance to him built an efficient tax-collecting system increased royal wealth and authority King Henry II broadened the system of royal justice expanding accepted customs into common law enforced by traveling judges

Evolving Traditions of Government King John (Henry’s son) angered his nobles by imposing high taxes & abusing his power barons united and forced John to sign the MAGNA CARTA limits the king’s power (has to obey the law) helps secure certain rights for nobles, townspeople and the church rights eventually extend to all English citizens  “rule of law” key principle in the democratic tradition.

Magna Carta

Triumph of Parliament Monarch Vs. Parliament (hundreds of years) British monarchs and Parliament struggled for power King Charles I & II summoned Parliament when he needed money dissolved it when Parliament tried to impose limits on his power Glorious Rev King James (Charles II brother) replaced by Parlimet Parliament forced the new king and queen (William & Mary) to sign the English Bill of Rights

Triumph of Parliament cont. English Bill of Rights Limits to the monarchy ensured the superiority of Parliament over the monarchy  Monarch must obey the law & rule with legislative body Required the monarch to summon Parliament regularly  House of commons has the “power of the purse”  Habeas corpus – arrested person must be charged with a crime  Limited Monarchy-