The Historic 1376 English 'Good Parliament'

The Significance of the 1376 English 'Good Parliament'

The Good Parliament, which began meeting in London in 1376, holds an essential place in English history due to its unprecedented length and the significant reforms it sought to implement. Convened during the reign of King Edward III, this parliament assembled to address pressing issues, including government corruption and the mismanagement of royal finances. Sitting until the 10th of July, the Good Parliament lasted for over three months, marking it as the longest sitting of any parliament in English history at that time.

The Context of the Good Parliament

The Good Parliament arose in a period of turmoil within the English monarchy. Following a series of military failures against the French during the Hundred Years' War, the English populace felt the weight of dissatisfaction not only with the monarchy but also with the extensive toll on the country's resources. Parliament, traditionally a body that represented nobles and clerics, began to see increased pressure from the commons to address these national grievances.

The Key Figures of the Good Parliament

Prominent figures such as Thomas Chaucer, the speaker of the House of Commons, played pivotal roles in the discussions and movements of the Good Parliament. Chaucer and other members courageously called out corruption and demanded accountability from the king's council, illustrating a growing sentiment for greater parliamentary power and oversight.

Reforms Proposed during the Good Parliament

Throughout its session, the Good Parliament introduced a series of significant reforms aimed at restoring public confidence in the monarchy. These included extensive investigations into the royal finances and accusations against a number of royal officials, including the notorious minister John of Gaunt.

The Impeachment of Royal Officials

One of the most notable outcomes of the Good Parliament was the impeachment of several officials, particularly those close to King Edward III. The assembly demanded justice for grievances against individuals perceived as corrupt and mismanaging state affairs, setting a precedent for future parliamentary actions.

The Impact on the Monarchy

The actions taken during the Good Parliament created a ripple effect in the political landscape of England. Although some reforms were curtailed shortly after, the precedent set for parliamentary authority became a building block for future governance in England, emphasizing the growing role of officials outside the monarchy in shaping national policy.

Fun Fact

Why is it called the 'Good Parliament'?

The term 'Good Parliament' reflects the general sentiment shared by its members and the populous regarding the positive reforms and accountability it sought. Unlike other parliaments of the time, which may be remembered for their corruption or lack of effectiveness, the Good Parliament stood out for its attempts to address the public's concerns effectively.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on the Good Parliament

For those interested in exploring more about this pivotal event, consider reading "The Reign of Edward III" by H. W. C. Davis, which details the complexities of Edward's rule and the role of parliament. Another insightful read is "The English Parliament in the Middle Ages" by Chris Given-Wilson, which explores parliamentary evolution, including the events of 1376.