Overview
Parliament's demands and the King's refusal on the eve of the English Civil War. This document shows constitutional crisis in action - what happens when the branches of government cannot agree on who holds ultimate authority.
Historical Context
The Background: Since the Petition of Right (1628), Charles had ruled without Parliament for 11 years ("Personal Rule"). When he finally recalled Parliament in 1640, grievances exploded.
The Issue: Who controls the military? Parliament feared Charles would use the army against them. They demanded control over military appointments. Charles saw this as stripping the crown of its essential powers.
The Exchange: Parliament presented Nineteen Propositions. Charles's answer accused them of trying to make him a figurehead. He warned their demands would lead to chaos.
The Significance: This is a primary source showing constitutional breakdown - the moment negotiation fails. Students of American government see echoes in debates over executive power, legislative authority, and separation of powers.
Educational Note: This document is part of the official James Madison Foundation curriculum for the Presidential 1776 Award. Understanding the English Civil War period helps explain why the American founders designed checks and balances the way they did.
Full Text
THE HUMBLE PETITION of the Lords and Commons assembled in Parliament:
That the great affairs of the kingdom may not be concluded or transacted by the advice of private men, or by any unknown or unsworn counsellors, but that such matters as concern the public, be debated, resolved and transacted only in parliament.
That the Lord High Steward of England, Lord High Constable, Lord Chancellor, and other great officers may always be chosen with the approbation of both Houses of Parliament.
That the King's children shall not be contracted in marriage to any foreign prince without consent of Parliament.
That the laws in force against Jesuits, priests, and Popish recusants, be strictly put in execution.
That the votes of Popish Lords in the House of Peers may be taken away.
That a complete reformation of church government may be perfected.
That your Majesty will be pleased to consent that the militia by sea and land may be ordered by authority of Parliament.
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THE KING'S ANSWER:
These being passed, we may be waited on bareheaded, we may have our hand kissed, the style of Majesty continued to us, and the King's authority may be so far useful unto them as to be used in the execution of their pleasure.
But as to real and true power, we should remain but the outside, but the picture, but the sign of a King.
We call God to witness that we desire nothing more than to preserve the whole body of the law, and to govern by it.