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Difficulty: MediumMagna Carta and the Development of Parliament

The sealing of the Magna Carta by King John in 12151215 was a landmark event that limited the monarch's power and led to the eventual development of a representative government. Which of the following describes how the English Parliament evolved into its two-house structure during the Middle Ages?

  1. By the middle of the 14th14^{th} century, Parliament had separated into the House of Lords for the nobility and bishops, and the House of Commons for knights and wealthy citizens.Answer
  2. B
    In 10661066, the Magna Carta immediately established a system of universal suffrage, granting all adult citizens the right to vote for representatives in the House of Commons.
  3. C
    By 13141314, the document was updated to strip the King of all legislative authority, making the House of Lords the sole governing body in England.
  4. D
    In 14851485, the Magna Carta was expanded to ensure that the House of Commons and the House of Lords would be chosen by a secret ballot of the entire population.

Answer

By the middle of the 14th14^{th} century, Parliament had separated into two houses: the House of Lords for the nobility and bishops, and the House of Commons for knights and wealthy citizens.
The correct answer identifies that the 14th14^{th} century was the period when the English Parliament divided into two houses: the House of Lords (for the nobility and clergy) and the House of Commons (for representatives of the knights and burgesses).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the significance of the Magna Carta (12151215)
It limited the power of King John and established the principle that the monarch must consult with the people (initially noblemen).
The Magna Carta created the basis for legal rights and the consultation of subjects.
2
Trace the development of the 'Great Council'
The council of noblemen that advised the King began to include representatives from the counties and towns.
Broadening representation was necessary for the King to gain support for taxes and laws.
3
Locate the transition to the bicameral system
By the mid-13001300 s (the 14th14^{th} century), the groups began to sit separately as the House of Lords and the House of Commons.
Distinct social classes (nobility vs. commoners) required separate forums for representation.

Key Concept

Development of the Bicameral Parliament
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Magna Carta and the Development of Parliament

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