The earliest origins of Parliament grew out of the ancient government institutions of Anglo-Saxon and Norman England
When did people start talking about Parliament? What did they mean by it? Learn about the earliest Parliaments here
Edward I is known as "Hammer of the Scots". Discover why he should also be called "the Founder of Parliament"
The Commons became more self-confident in the 14th century. Why did contemporaries call some Parliaments "Good", "Wonderful" and "Merciless"?
Today, Parliament's main duties are making laws and setting taxes. Learn how the Commons gained their influence in these areas
Most hereditary peers were removed from the House of Lords in 1999. Find out about the House's origins and membership
Who were the knights of the shire in the medieval Commons? How were they elected? Who chose them?
Borough representation was a target for reform in the 1830s. Discover why people thought it had become so corrupt
How do we know what happened in Parliament? Find out about the records of Parliament, both then and now
Learn about the buildings and rooms of the medieval Parliament, lost forever after the fire of 1834 in Westminster
Parliament's role in Henry VIII's break with Rome, one of the most significant events in English history
Did the Civil War start during the reign of Elizabeth I? Learn about the differing interpretations of this important period
1215-1603: The development of both Houses of Parliament over the Middle Ages
Read about Parliament's current role in examining what the Government is doing, making new laws, setting taxes and debating the issues of the day