Question

Difficulty: MediumMagna Carta and the Development of Parliament

In 12151215, King John sealed the Magna Carta, a landmark document that limited the monarch's power. Following this event, how did the advisory 'Great Council' evolve into the structure of the British Parliament during the 1300s1300s?

  1. It divided into two distinct chambers: the House of Lords for the nobility and senior clergy, and the House of Commons for knights and wealthy people from the towns.Answer
  2. B
    It granted the right to vote to all adult citizens regardless of their status, fulfilling the democratic principles established in 12151215.
  3. C
    The council was abolished and replaced by a single chamber of representatives following the Battle of Hastings in 10661066.
  4. D
    The assembly was reorganized into the House of Tudors to mark the end of the Middle Ages in 14851485.

Answer

The Great Council divided into two houses: the House of Lords for the nobility and clergy, and the House of Commons for knights and wealthy people from the towns.
The correct answer accurately reflects that by the middle of the 14th14^{th} century, the English Parliament had developed into two houses. The House of Lords was composed of the nobility and senior clergy, while the House of Commons consisted of knights and wealthy individuals from towns and cities.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the historical starting point.
King John sealed the Magna Carta in 12151215, which introduced the concept that even the monarch must follow the law and consult advisors.
This establishes the transition from absolute rule to a consultative process.
2
Track the development of the 'Great Council'.
Over the next century, the group of advisors became more influential in matters of taxation and law.
The council's growth in power made structural organization necessary.
3
Identify the structural split in the 14th14^{th} century.
By the mid-1300s1300s, Parliament evolved into two distinct houses: the Lords (nobles/clergy) and the Commons (knights/wealthy commoners).
This separation reflected the different social classes involved in governance at the time.

Key Concept

The Evolution of the Bicameral Parliament
Estimated Time:45s
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