English Parliamentary System

Timeline

1. 1295Westminster · LondonEdward I summoned the Model Parliament, the first systematic convocation of clergy, nobles, and representatives of the counties and boroughs to deliberate on taxation and legislation, establishing the convention of attendance by representatives of the estates.
2. 1311–1322Westminster · LondonIn 1311 a baronial faction forced Edward II to accept the Ordinances, which limited royal appointments and finances through parliamentary authorization; between 1312 and 1322 parliament and the king repeatedly contended, strengthening parliament's role as a political arbiter.
3. c. 1341–1400Westminster · LondonFrom the mid-14th century the division of labor between the House of Lords (nobles and clergy) and the House of Commons (representatives of the commons and knights) became increasingly clear, and procedures for petitions and bills took shape, laying the foundation for the structure of the modern British Parliament.