1. Aim: Explain How England’s Government Took Steps Toward Democracy

2. England’s Evolving Government
Break up of Feudal system lead to centralized nations (Britain & France)
For centuries, invaders landed on English shores
William the Conqueror came from Norway
English Kings Goals
1) Wanted to hold and add to their French lands
2) Wanted to strengthen their own power over nobles and the Church
Williams descendants Owned land in England and France
Henry II- Married Eleanor of Aquitaine
Marriage brought Henry large territory in France called Aquitaine 2

3. Juries & Common Law 1154-1189- Henry rule England
Strengthened the royal courts of justice
Sent judges to collect taxes, settled lawsuits, & punish crimes
Henry introduces use of the Jury
Consisted of 12 neighbors of the accused
The rulings of England’s royal judges formed a unified body of law known as Common Law
Principles of common law are basis of law in many places (United States) 3

4. The Magna Carta Henry succeeded by Richard the Lion Hearted
Died and brother John became King
John confrontational with nobles
John was cruel to his subjects
Tried to squeeze money of out of them
Alienated the Church
Raised taxes to all time high
1215, Nobles Revolted
Forced John to sign the Magna Carta
Document guaranteed certain rights
Ex: No Taxation w/o Representation, Jury Trial, & Protection of the Law 4

5. The Model Parliament
Important step towards democratic government came during rule of King Edward I
1295- Parliament or legislative group convened
Made up of knights, burgesses, bishops, and lords met together at Westminster in London
In Parliament, these groups gradually formed an assembly of their own called the House of Commons
Under Edward I, Parliaments was a tool that weakened the lords
Provided a check on royal power (Checks and Balances) 5