Bill of Rights 1689 facts for kids

The Bill of Rights is a very important law from England. It was passed by the English Parliament in December 1689. This law is also known as the English Bill of Rights. Its full name is quite long: The Act Declaring the Rights and Liberties of the Subject and Settling the Succession of the Crown.

This law helped to make sure people had certain freedoms. It also decided who would be the next king or queen. The Bill of Rights was created after a big change in England. This change was called the Glorious Revolution. It happened when James II of England was no longer king. The Bill of Rights is still an important law today.

What is the Bill of Rights?

The Bill of Rights is a special law. It was made by the Parliament of England. A parliament is like a big meeting of people. These people are chosen to make laws for a country. The English Bill of Rights made sure that the king or queen could not have too much power. It gave more power to Parliament.

Why was it created?

Before the Bill of Rights, England had a king named James II of England. Many people did not like his rule. They felt he was taking too much power. They also disagreed with his religious beliefs. This led to a big event called the Glorious Revolution.

During this time, King James II was removed from power. William and Mary became the new king and queen. But before they could rule, Parliament made them agree to the Bill of Rights. This made sure the new rulers would respect the law.

What rights did it give?

The Bill of Rights gave many important rights. It said that the king or queen could not make or stop laws without Parliament's approval. It also said that people had the right to speak freely in Parliament. They could also have fair trials.

Here are some key ideas from the Bill of Rights:

• The king or queen could not raise taxes without Parliament's permission.
• People had the right to complain to the king or queen. This is called the right to petition.
• Protestants could have weapons for their defense.
• Parliament should meet often.
• Elections for Parliament should be free.
• No cruel or unusual punishments should be used.

Why is it still important?

The Bill of Rights is still a very important law. It helped create the idea of a limited monarchy. This means the king or queen's power is limited by laws. It also helped make Parliament stronger.

Many countries around the world have used ideas from the English Bill of Rights. It influenced the United States Bill of Rights. It also shaped laws in Canada and New Zealand. It is a key part of the United Kingdom's laws today.

Images for kids

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  An 18th-century picture of the Bill of Rights. It shows the law being given to King William III and Queen Mary II.

See also

In Spanish: Declaración de Derechos de 1689 para niños