How far do you agree with the statement 'Between 1500 and 2014 Parliament was more powerful than the monarch?'

Introduction
The relationship between Parliament and the monarch in England (and later Britain) from 1500 to 2014 was complex and ever-evolving. While the early modern period saw monarchs wielding significant power, Parliament gradually gained influence, culminating in its supremacy by the 20th century. Overall, while there were periods where monarchs held greater sway, the statement that Parliament was more powerful between 1500 and 2014 is largely accurate, particularly when considering the long trajectory of their respective powers.

Early Modern Period (1500-1700s)

Paragraph 1: Monarch's Power - Evidence of a strong monarchy
In the 16th century, England witnessed the reigns of powerful monarchs like Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. Henry VIII's break from Rome, made possible by Parliament's passage of the Act of Supremacy, nevertheless demonstrated his ability to use Parliament for his own ends. Elizabeth I, summoning Parliament only 18 times in her 44-year reign, similarly suggests a monarch largely in control. During this period, monarchs held considerable power, dictating religious policy, controlling the aristocracy, and largely governing as they saw fit.

Paragraph 2: Parliament's Growing Influence and Challenges to the Monarch
The 17th century marked a turning point. Parliament, increasingly assertive of its rights and role in governance, clashed with James I and Charles I over issues like taxation and religious policies. The Petition of Right (1628), which attempted to limit royal power, exemplifies this growing tension. Ultimately, these disagreements culminated in the English Civil War (1642-1649), a stark demonstration of Parliament's growing power, even if temporarily achieved through conflict. The execution of Charles I and the subsequent Commonwealth further illustrated the potential for Parliament to usurp monarchical authority.

Paragraph 3: The Restoration and the Glorious Revolution
While the monarchy was restored in 1660, the memory of the Civil War and the execution of Charles I loomed large. The Glorious Revolution of 1688 solidified Parliament's ascendancy. The relatively bloodless overthrow of James II and the subsequent Bill of Rights (1689) established Parliament's right to a role in governance, limited monarchical power, and ensured regular parliamentary sessions. This event marked a turning point, making it clear that the monarch ruled only with the consent of Parliament.

Modern Period (1700s - 2014)

Paragraph 4: Parliamentary Supremacy
Following the Glorious Revolution, Parliament's power continued to grow. The development of the cabinet government and the increasing role of the Prime Minister, answerable to Parliament, exemplified this shift. The Reform Acts of the 19th century, extending suffrage and making Parliament more representative of the population, further solidified its power as the true voice of the British people. By the 20th century, Parliament had become the dominant force in British politics.

Paragraph 5: The Monarchy's Evolving Role
In contrast, the monarchy's role transitioned from one of direct political power to a symbolic and ceremonial one. While monarchs like George V and Elizabeth II remained influential figures, their power lay in their ability to unite and inspire the nation, particularly during times of war or crisis. Political decisions, however, rested firmly in the hands of the elected government and Parliament.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the balance of power between Parliament and the monarch fluctuated in the early modern period, the overarching trend from 1500 to 2014 undeniably points to the increasing power of Parliament. While monarchs like Henry VIII and Elizabeth I wielded significant authority, the English Civil War and, more importantly, the Glorious Revolution, marked a decisive shift in the balance. By the 20th century, Parliament's supremacy was undeniable, with the monarch's role evolving into a primarily symbolic one. Thus, the statement that Parliament was more powerful than the monarch between 1500 and 2014 is largely accurate, particularly when considering the long-term trajectory of their relationship.