Chapter 3 · History

Development of Parliament

Source: Handbook p.20

Parliament gradually developed during the Middle Ages. In 1265, Simon de Montfort called a Parliament that included ordinary people (knights and burgesses) for the first time, not just nobles and churchmen. This was a major step towards representative government. Over time, Parliament divided into two Houses: the House of Lords (for nobles and bishops) and the House of Commons (for elected representatives).

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