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The rise of Parliament and the Divine Right of Kings

Study note

Elizabeth I had been very skilled at managing Parliament and getting her way without serious quarrels. Her successors, James I and his son Charles I, were far less skilful, and this led to deep conflict between Crown and Parliament.

The root of the trouble was a belief that both kings held, known as the Divine Right of Kings. This was the idea that the king was chosen directly by God, and that he could therefore rule and make decisions without needing the approval of Parliament. Such a view was bound to anger members of Parliament who wanted a say in how the country was run.

Charles I pushed this belief furthest. When he could not persuade Parliament to support his policies, he simply tried to govern without it altogether. For 11 years he found ways to raise money without calling Parliament at all, until serious trouble in Scotland finally forced him to summon it again. For the test, understand the Divine Right of Kings and remember that Charles I ruled for 11 years without Parliament.

Memory tip: Divine Right of Kings = the king is appointed by God; Charles I ruled 11 years without Parliament.

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Question 1 of 3

What was the 'Divine Right of Kings'?

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The rise of Parliament and the Divine Right of Kings: questions, answers and explanations

  1. 1. What was the 'Divine Right of Kings'?

    • The right of Parliament to dismiss the king
    • The belief that the king was appointed by God and need not seek Parliament's approval
    • The king's right to lead the Church
    • The right of nobles to elect the king

    Correct answer: The belief that the king was appointed by God and need not seek Parliament's approval

    The Divine Right of Kings held that the king was appointed by God and need not answer to Parliament.

  2. 2. For how many years did Charles I try to rule without calling Parliament?

    • 11 years
    • 5 years
    • 1 year
    • 20 years

    Correct answer: 11 years

    Charles I ruled for 11 years without Parliament before being forced to recall it.

  3. 3. Both James I and Charles I believed in the Divine Right of Kings.

    • True
    • False

    Correct answer: True

    True. James I and Charles I both believed in the Divine Right of Kings.

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