The House of Commons, composed of elected members from various constituencies across the country, represented the interests of the people and held significant power in matters of taxation and legislation. Charles I, seeking to rule without parliamentary interference, often dissolved Parliament when it challenged his policies. This led to periods without a functioning Parliament, creating tensions between the King and his subjects.
In an effort to curtail the King's authority, Parliament passed several acts, such as the Petition of Right in 1628, to protect the rights and liberties of the subjects against arbitrary royal power. These acts further strained the relationship between Charles I and Parliament.
As discontent grew within the nation, the conflict between the King and the Parliament escalated, culminating in the outbreak of the English Civil War in 1642. During this period, the Parliament emerged as the dominant political force, gaining control over various aspects of governance, including the House of Commons.
Ultimately, the civil war ended with the defeat of Charles I and the establishment of the Commonwealth, led by Oliver Cromwell. The monarchy was abolished, and the House of Commons became the supreme legislative body in the absence of a monarch.