The English Bill of Rights, signed in 1689, marked a significant moment in British constitutional history. It was designed to limit the powers of the monarchy and establish parliamentary sovereignty. Here are two details that support the idea that the English Bill of Rights was signed as an acceptance of obligations:
1. **Monarchs' Agreement to the Bill**: The Bill of Rights was presented to William III and Mary II, who were offered the English crown jointly in what is often referred to as the Glorious Revolution. They accepted the terms of the Bill of Rights, which included various limitations on their power. This act of acceptance can be seen as a commitment to uphold the obligations outlined in the Bill.
2. **Provisions Limiting Monarchical Power**: The Bill of Rights contained a series of provisions that clearly defined the rights and limitations of the monarchy, such as prohibiting the king or queen from levying taxes or maintaining a standing army during peacetime without Parliament's consent. These provisions reflected a recognition of obligations and constraints on the monarchy's authority.
So, the signing of the English Bill of Rights by William III and Mary II was an acknowledgment of their acceptance of obligations that restricted the powers of the monarchy and established the supremacy of Parliament.