The British monarchy gradually lost governing power over several centuries, with key events marking significant changes in authority. While there is no single date that marks the complete loss of power, a few pivotal moments are especially important.
One of the most critical events was the Glorious Revolution in 1688, when King James II was deposed and replaced by William and Mary. This event established parliamentary sovereignty and laid the groundwork for a constitutional monarchy.
Another landmark moment was the Act of Settlement in 1701, which further restricted the powers of the monarchy by establishing laws governing succession and ensuring that only Protestant descendants of Princess Sophia of Hanover could inherit the throne.
The culmination of this gradual transfer of power was the Parliament Acts of 1911 and 1949, which limited the House of Lords’ ability to veto legislation, effectively placing more power in the hands of the elected House of Commons.
Thus, while the monarchy still exists today, it functions primarily as a ceremonial entity with little to no governing power, reflecting a long evolution towards a democratic political system.