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The evolution of Parliament

The Palace of Westminster has been a centre of power for over 900 years. In this section we chart the development of parliamentary sovereignty, from absolute rule by the Sovereign, to Parliament asserting its authority over the monarchy, through to a modern democratic legislature in a technological age.

Related Information

What Parliament does, its role in UK politics, and relationship with Government, the Crown and Europe

Parliament's role

Houses of History

Watch this video to experience one thousand years of history at the Palace of Westminster in just three minutes. You will see the shift in power from the monarch to the people, the emergence of universal suffrage, and the amazing history of the Palace itself.