Parliament of England

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Historical legislature of the Kingdom of England

The Parliament of England was the legislature of the Kingdom of England from the early 13th century until 1707, when it was succeeded by the Parliament of Great Britain. The Parliament of England was a bicameral body, consisting of the House of Lords and the House of Commons.

History

The origins of the Parliament of England can be traced back to the early medieval period. The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, is often considered a foundational document in the development of parliamentary governance. The Great Council, which advised the king, evolved into the Parliament of England.

House of Lords

The House of Lords was composed of the nobility, including bishops and abbots of the Church of England. It served as the upper house of Parliament and played a crucial role in the legislative process.

House of Commons

The House of Commons was composed of representatives elected by the constituencies of England. It served as the lower house of Parliament and was responsible for representing the interests of the common people.

Functions

The primary functions of the Parliament of England included making laws, granting taxes, and addressing grievances. The monarch required the consent of Parliament to levy taxes and pass legislation.

Significant Events

• The English Civil War (1642–1651) led to significant changes in the structure and power of Parliament.
• The Glorious Revolution of 1688 resulted in the establishment of a constitutional monarchy and the Bill of Rights 1689.

Dissolution

The Parliament of England was dissolved in 1707 with the passage of the Acts of Union 1707, which united the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of Scotland to form the Kingdom of Great Britain.

Related Pages

• House of Lords
• House of Commons of England
• Magna Carta
• English Civil War
• Glorious Revolution
• Bill of Rights 1689
• Acts of Union 1707
• Parliament of Great Britain

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