Parliament

Definition

Parliament is the supreme legislative body in the United Kingdom, consisting of two houses: the House of Commons and the House of Lords. It plays a crucial role in shaping laws, debating national issues, and providing a check on the powers of the monarchy, particularly during pivotal events like civil wars and revolutions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Parliament's origins can be traced back to the early medieval period when monarchs summoned nobles to discuss important matters, evolving into a formal legislative body by the 13th century.
2. The English Civil War (1642-1651) was significantly influenced by conflicts between Parliament and King Charles I over issues of governance and authority, leading to the temporary abolition of the monarchy.
3. The Glorious Revolution in 1688 resulted in William and Mary taking the throne under conditions that emphasized parliamentary sovereignty over royal authority.
4. Throughout history, Parliament has gradually gained more power at the expense of the monarchy, especially after key events like the Civil War and the passage of the Bill of Rights in 1689.
5. In contemporary times, Parliament is responsible for passing laws that govern not only England but also its broader realms and territories, reflecting its continued importance in British governance.

Review Questions

• How did the relationship between Parliament and the monarchy evolve during the English Civil War?
  • During the English Civil War, tensions escalated between Parliament and King Charles I, primarily over issues of taxation and governance. Parliament sought greater control and representation for common people, challenging the absolute authority of the king. The conflict led to a power struggle resulting in Parliament's temporary victory and the execution of Charles I, fundamentally changing the nature of British governance and diminishing monarchical power.
• Discuss the implications of the Glorious Revolution on parliamentary power and its relationship with monarchy.
  • The Glorious Revolution marked a significant turning point in British history, solidifying Parliament's authority over royal prerogative. When William and Mary ascended to the throne with parliamentary consent, it established a constitutional framework that limited monarchical power. This event reinforced principles such as parliamentary sovereignty and set precedents for future governance, ensuring that Parliament would play a central role in law-making and political decision-making.
• Evaluate how Parliament's evolution reflects broader trends toward constitutionalism in Europe during this period.
  • Parliament's evolution from a feudal assembly to a powerful legislative body mirrors broader trends toward constitutionalism across Europe. This shift emphasized the importance of representative governance and limited royal authority. As various nations grappled with absolutism versus constitutional frameworks, England's experience with Parliament illustrated how citizen representation could effectively challenge monarchical power. These developments contributed to a wider movement for democratic principles and civil rights throughout Europe, influencing revolutions and reforms in subsequent centuries.

Related terms

House of Commons: The lower house of Parliament, composed of Members of Parliament (MPs) elected by the public, which holds significant legislative power.

Monarchy:

A system of government where a single ruler, often a king or queen, serves as the head of state, with varying degrees of power and influence.

Bill of Rights 1689: A landmark document that limited the powers of the monarchy and outlined the rights of Parliament and citizens, establishing a constitutional framework for governance in England.