History of Europe

What did parliament and the English bill of rights do to power king?

The English Bill of Rights, enacted in 1689, along with the actions taken by Parliament significantly shaped and limited the power of the English monarch. Here are some of the key changes and limitations that were introduced:

1. Parliamentary Sovereignty:

- Parliament established its supremacy over the monarchy. This meant that the king could not pass or veto laws without the consent of Parliament.

2. Freedom of Speech in Parliament:

- Members of Parliament gained freedom of speech and debate within Parliament, ensuring that they could discuss matters of state without fear of reprisal from the king.

3. Religious Tolerance:

- The Bill of Rights guaranteed freedom of worship for Protestants, except for Catholics and those who denied the Trinity.

4. No Suspending of Laws:

- The king could not suspend or dispense with laws passed by Parliament without their consent.

5. No Excessive Bail and Fines:

- Excessive bail and fines imposed on individuals were deemed illegal.

6. Juries and Trials:

- The right to a fair and impartial trial by jury was established, along with the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.

7. Frequent Parliaments:

- Parliament ensured that frequent elections and sessions would be held, limiting the king's ability to rule without their involvement.

8. Right to Petition the King:

- Subjects were granted the right to petition the king without fear of punishment or prosecution.

9. Succession:

- The Bill of Rights laid down the Act of Settlement, which determined the line of succession to the throne, prioritizing Protestant heirs.

10. Royal Prerogative Limited:

- The king's authority, known as the royal prerogative, was limited, ensuring that he could not act arbitrarily or without legal basis.

By enacting these measures, Parliament and the English Bill of Rights reduced the absolute power of the monarchy and established the foundation for a constitutional monarchy, where the powers of the king were subject to the law and the authority of Parliament. The Bill of Rights is considered a foundational document in the development of constitutional law and the protection of individual rights in the United Kingdom.