During the Renaissance period in England, a significant political development that expanded the powers of Parliament and limited the authority of the monarchy was the establishment of the English Civil War (1642-1651) and the subsequent Glorious Revolution (1688).
The English Civil War arose from conflicts over governance, authority, and the extent of royal power, particularly under King Charles I. Charles's attempts to impose his will on Parliament and govern without their consent led to immense tensions. The Parliamentarians, who sought to limit the king's powers, ultimately fought against the Royalists in the Civil War. The conflict culminated in the trial and execution of Charles I in 1649 and the establishment of the Commonwealth under Oliver Cromwell.
Following the interregnum and the eventual restoration of the monarchy in 1660, tensions remained. The Glorious Revolution of 1688 was a critical turning point that resulted in the overthrow of James II and the ascension of William and Mary to the throne. This event was pivotal in the establishment of constitutional monarchy in England, which recognized and formalized the supremacy of Parliament over the monarchy. The subsequent Bill of Rights in 1689 codified various rights and liberties, significantly limiting royal authority and affirming the role of Parliament in governance.
Overall, these developments during the Renaissance period were crucial in shaping the evolution of parliamentary democracy in England and limiting monarchical power.
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