Changes

During the English Civil War, from 1642-1651, Parliament became not only powerful but overthrew the monarch with the establishment of the post-Lord Protector under Oliver Cromwell. Although the post of "Lord Protector" did not last after Cromwell, with the king (Charles II) invited back to govern, English and subsequently British and global history changed. Now, Parliament with much greater authority and having the ability to control the fate of the king, began to formalize a new position that enabled someone besides the king to lead the government. Increasingly, political parties gained power, which was the Whigs and Tories in the late 17th century. These parties were increasingly able to guide and direct government policy.

====The impact of the Glorious Revolution on English Government====

In 1688, the Glorious Revolution overthrew the king once more (James II), which gave Parliament even more power. This was followed up with the Bill of Rights in 1689 Act. This formalized the House of Commons as being part of the government and allowed it to now formally control taxes and establish new laws. This drastically reduced the power of the king and began to make it more clear that the government had to be also led by leaders other than the king or queen.