Parliament Takes Shape

After the death of King John, his son Henry III began to rule on the throne of England. King Henry III expanded the council of his advisors to include certain members of the clergy, and important members of the various cities and towns. This great council began to be known as Parliament.

King Henry III’s son King Edward I expanded parliament still further, and began to rely on Parliament for guidance. He encouraged them to meet often to debate important issues, and to give him suggestions in what laws should be passed, and in what direction the kingdom should be taken.

By A.D. 1400 Parliament had been divided into two separate houses. The clergy, and nobles met in the House of Lords, while knights and important towns people met in the House of Commons.