0 5 Explain the reasons for the changes to the relationship between Parliament and the monarchy in Britain between c1170 and c1900. [8 marks] The indicative content is designed to exemplify the qualities expected at each level and is not a full exemplar answer. All historically relevant and valid answers should be credited.
Level
GCSE
Year Examined
2021
Topic
Britain: Power and the people: c1170 to the present day
👑Complete Model Essay
0 5 Explain the reasons for the changes to the relationship between Parliament and the monarchy in Britain between c1170 and c1900. [8 marks] The indicative content is designed to exemplify the qualities expected at each level and is not a full exemplar answer. All historically relevant and valid answers should be credited.
Explain the reasons for the changes to the relationship between Parliament and the monarchy in Britain between c1170 and c1900. [8 marks]
Introduction: In 1170, England's monarchy, under King John, reigned supreme with early Parliaments holding limited influence. By 1900, Britain had transformed into a constitutional monarchy, with Parliament wielding supreme power. This essay will explore the key factors underpinning this seismic shift in the power balance.
Medieval Period (c1170-1485)
Magna Carta (1215): Although initially unsuccessful, Magna Carta was a landmark document. It established the principle of limiting monarchical power and asserting the rights of the barons, the precursors to Parliament. This planted the seeds for future challenges to absolute monarchy.
The Development of Parliament: From the Model Parliament of 1295, Parliament evolved, gradually gaining a voice in governance. Crucially, its power to grant taxes provided leverage against the monarchy, who required funds. This financial control proved to be a powerful tool in shaping the relationship.
Case Study - The Deposition of Richard II (1399): Parliament's deposition of Richard II in favour of Henry IV was a defining moment. It demonstrated Parliament's newfound authority to remove an unsuitable king, showcasing a shift in power dynamics. However, the principle of hereditary monarchy remained intact.
Early Modern Period (c1485-1688)
The Tudors and Parliament: The Tudor monarchs, notably Henry VIII, were adept at wielding power. However, they recognised the importance of securing Parliament's support, particularly for significant changes like the English Reformation. This era exemplifies a period of cooperation intertwined with power struggles.
The English Civil War (1642-1651): This conflict, fuelled by disputes over religion and royal authority, proved a turning point. The execution of Charles I and the subsequent Interregnum, a period without a monarch, starkly demonstrated Parliament's growing dominance.
The Glorious Revolution (1688): This event cemented Parliament's supremacy. The Bill of Rights (1689) established fundamental limitations on monarchical power, enshrining Parliament's right to pass laws and control taxation. This marked a decisive shift from an absolute to a constitutional monarchy.
Late Modern Period (c1688-1900)
The Hanoverians and the Rise of the Prime Minister: The Hanoverian monarchs' reliance on ministers led to the rise of the Prime Minister, further shifting power towards Parliament. The monarch became increasingly removed from the day-to-day running of the government.
Gradual Democratic Reforms: The 19th-century Reform Acts expanded suffrage, diminishing the monarchy's political power and strengthening Parliament's claim to represent the people.
The Victorian Era and the Symbolic Monarchy: Queen Victoria, despite her popularity, presided over a diminished monarchy. The focus shifted towards a symbolic role, embodying national unity rather than wielding direct political power.
Conclusion
The evolution of the relationship between Parliament and the monarchy from 1170 to 1900 was a protracted process. From a position of monarchical dominance, the balance tipped in favour of Parliament, culminating in a constitutional monarchy. Key milestones, including Magna Carta, the English Civil War, and the Glorious Revolution, reflect this transition. This shift was driven by factors including Parliament's growing financial control, its assertions of rights and power, and the gradual development of democratic principles and systems.
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Explain the reasons for the changes to the relationship between Parliament and the monarchy in Britain between c1170 and c1900. [8 marks]
Introduction: Briefly establish the state of the relationship between Parliament and the monarchy in 1170 (King John, early Parliaments, Crown holding more power) and then in 1900 (constitutional monarchy, Parliament supreme). State that the shift in power was a gradual process with various contributing factors.
Medieval Period (c1170-1485)
Magna Carta (1215): Explain how this document, while not initially successful, set a precedent for limiting monarchical power and asserting the rights of the barons (who later formed part of Parliament).
The Development of Parliament: Discuss the gradual formation of Parliament (Model Parliament 1295) and its evolving role in granting taxes, leading to increased leverage over the monarchy.
Case Study - The Deposition of Richard II (1399): Show how Parliament asserted its right to depose a king and place another on the throne, signifying a shift in power, although the principle of hereditary monarchy remained.
Early Modern Period (c1485-1688)
The Tudors and Parliament: Explain how the Tudors, while powerful monarchs, generally worked with Parliament, recognizing the need for its support (e.g., Henry VIII and the English Reformation).
The English Civil War (1642-1651): Discuss how conflicts over religion and the extent of royal power led to the English Civil War, Charles I's execution, and the Interregnum, demonstrating the growing power of Parliament.
The Glorious Revolution (1688): Emphasize the significance of this event in establishing parliamentary supremacy. Explain the Bill of Rights (1689) and its limitations on the monarchy, securing Parliament's role in passing laws and levying taxes.
Late Modern Period (c1688-1900)
The Hanoverians and the Rise of the Prime Minister: Discuss how the Hanoverian monarchs' reliance on ministers led to the development of the Prime Minister's role, further shifting power towards Parliament.
Gradual Democratic Reforms: Briefly mention the Reform Acts of the 19th century and their impact on expanding suffrage, which contributed to the decline of the monarchy's direct political power.
The Victorian Era and the Symbolic Monarchy: Explain how Queen Victoria, while a popular figure, reigned during a period of diminished monarchical political power. The monarchy increasingly became a symbol of national unity rather than a powerful political force.
Conclusion
Reiterate the significant transformation in the relationship between Parliament and the monarchy. From a position of monarchical dominance in the 12th century, the balance of power shifted gradually towards Parliament, culminating in the establishment of a constitutional monarchy by the end of the 19th century. Highlight the key contributing factors, such as Magna Carta, the English Civil War, the Glorious Revolution, and the evolution of parliamentary systems and democratic principles.
Extracts from Mark Schemes
The Evolving Relationship between Parliament and the Monarchy
The relationship between Parliament and the monarchy has changed significantly over time.
The Early Years: Limited Parliamentary Power
In the 12th century, the monarch had absolute power and Parliament was a relatively weak institution. For example, King John was forced to sign Magna Carta, which limited his power and increased the power of Parliament. However, the power of the monarchy remained strong for many centuries, and Parliament still had a limited role to play in government.
The 17th Century: A Time of Tension
In the 17th century, the relationship between Parliament and the monarchy became more tense. The civil war broke out, for example, during the reign of Charles I. After the Glorious Revolution, the relationship between Parliament and the monarchy was changed forever.
The 18th Century: A Shift in Power
In the 18th century, Parliament became the dominant power in government and the monarch became a figurehead. For example, George III was king but he had very little real power.
The 19th Century: The Decline of Monarchical Power
In the 19th century, the power of the monarchy continued to decline. For example, Queen Victoria was a popular monarch but she was aware that her power was limited. By the end of the 19th century, the monarchy was essentially a ceremonial institution. For example, Queen Victoria’s son Edward VII was king but he was only a symbolic figurehead.