Revolution of England

The English Revolution began in the 17th century with the conflict of king and parliament. Let’s first discuss little bit of history to understand origin of tension.

History of England

  • William, the Conqueror established a strong monarchy in England in the 11th
  • King Henry I established a council of chief nobles and church dignitaries in 11th
  • By 13th century, this council had come to be called Parliament.
  • In 1215, King John accepted a charter of demands made by barons to safeguard their interest in form of Magna Carta. It was to protect merchants from arbitrary taxation.
  • Civil war in 13th century led to defeat of king but still parliament was not representative.
  • Kings with support of merchants controlled Parliament.

Developments of 17th Century & Glorious Revolution

  • Civil war of 1640s: Charles I when became unsuccessful in getting Parliament consensus for taxation to get money for the war with Scotland, started to mobilise support against Parliament. Late Charles I captured and executed. Parliament established as republic in 1649.
  • Republic lasted only for 11 years and monarchy was restored. But tussle between king and Parliament continued.
  • In 1688, group of parliamentarian invited William of Orange (Ruler of Holland) to become king. This event is known as Glorious Revolution.
  • Bill of Rights enacted in 1689.
  • With the Act of Settlement (1701) Parliament chose the successors of king and thus affirmed the principle that monarchy is dependent upon Parliament.

Question

  1. What were the main ideas behind the English Revolution?