THE RULE OF LAW 1. Preventing arbitrary power

• In the UK

Historical context
In 1688, Parliament overthrew King James II because he had tried to set up an absolute monarchy : this was the Glorious Revolution. As James II fled to France, Parliament offered the crown to William and Mary of Orange provided they accept the Declaration of Rights.

The Declaration of Rights, 22 January 1689
The Declaration of Rights limited royal power to protect the liberties of the people and set up the basis for parliamentary monarchy : only Parliament representing the people can pass laws or taxes and no one is above the law, not even the monarch.

• In the USA

Historical context
In the 18th century tensions increased between Britain and its 13 North-American colonies as Parliament tried to impose trade restrictions and taxes there. In 1775 the war of independence broke out and lasted until 1783 when King George III had to concede defeat.

The Declaration of Independence, 4 July 1776
The Declaration of Independence asserts that the duty of government is to protect human rights. As King George III's government did the opposite, it justified the rebellion of the 13 colonies and their choice of becoming 13 independent states free from Britain.