The English Bill of Rights

The English Bill of Rights, enacted in 1689, is a key document that limited the powers of the monarchy and established certain rights for Parliament and citizens. It declared that no king or queen could suspend laws, levy taxes, or maintain an army without Parliament’s consent. It also protected freedoms such as free speech within Parliament and banned cruel and unusual punishments. This act helped shift power toward elected representatives, laying a foundation for constitutional democracy and individual rights in Britain.