Unit 2: Historical Context of Modern Government
Table of Contents
1. From Absolutism to Constitutionalism: The British Case
The British political system is unique because it lacks a single codified document. Its transition from Absolute Monarchy (where the King had total power) to Constitutional Monarchy (where the Monarch's power is limited by law and Parliament) happened over centuries through evolution, not a single revolution.
What is Constitutionalism?
Constitutionalism is the principle that government authority is derived from and limited by a body of fundamental law. In Britain, this means the "Rule of Law" and "Parliamentary Sovereignty."
Key Features of the British Transition
- Gradualism: Changes occurred slowly without violent upheavals (except the Civil War period).
- Continuity: Old institutions (like the Monarchy) were preserved but their functions changed.
- Flexibility: The unwritten nature of the constitution allows it to adapt to modern needs easily.
2. Key Milestones in British Political History
Four major events defined the limitation of royal power and the rise of the people:
| Event | Year | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Magna Carta | 1215 | The first document to state that the King is not above the law. |
| Glorious Revolution | 1688 | Established the supremacy of Parliament over the Crown without bloodshed. |
| Bill of Rights | 1689 | Listed specific rights of Parliament and individuals; limited the Monarch's interference in law. |
| Reform Acts | 1832-1928 | Gradually expanded the right to vote (franchise) to all adults. |
3. Colonialism and Decolonization: The Case of Brazil
Unlike many other nations, Brazil's path to independence and modern government was heavily influenced by its unique relationship with its colonizer, Portugal.
The Colonial Era (1500-1822)
- Portuguese Rule: Brazil was the only major South American colony ruled by Portugal.
- The Flight of the Monarchy (1808): When Napoleon invaded Portugal, the Portuguese Royal family fled to Brazil, making Rio de Janeiro the capital of the entire Portuguese Empire. This raised Brazil's status.
The Path to Independence
Independence was declared in 1822 by Dom Pedro I (the son of the Portuguese King), who became the first Emperor of Brazil. This made Brazil an Independent Empire before it became a Republic.
4. Transition to Republic in Brazil
Brazil transitioned from a Monarchy to a Republic in 1889 through a military coup, marking the end of the "Empire of Brazil."
Phases of Governance
- The Empire (1822-1889): A period of relative stability but with a centralized monarchy.
- The Old Republic: Characterized by the dominance of rural elites (the "Coffee with Milk" politics).
- The Era of Dictatorship (1964-1985): A period of military rule that deeply affected modern Brazilian political culture.
- Redemocratization (1985-Present): The 1988 Constitution established Brazil as a Federal Republic with strong democratic protections.
5. Exam Focus: Tips and FAQs
Exam Tips
- "Unwritten" vs "Uncodified": Always use "Uncodified" for the British Constitution. It's more accurate because laws are written, just not in one single book.
- The 1808 Event: Mentioning the Portuguese Royal family's move to Brazil is a "pro-tip" that shows you understand why Brazil's independence was different from Spanish colonies.
- Sovereignty: In Britain, remember that Parliament is sovereign. In Brazil (and India), the Constitution is sovereign.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the British Constitution called a "living organism"?
A: Because it is constantly growing and changing through new laws, court judgments, and conventions without needing formal amendments.
Q: What was "Coffee with Milk" (Café com Leite) politics in Brazil?
A: It was a political agreement between the elites of São Paulo (coffee producers) and Minas Gerais (dairy producers) to rotate the Presidency between them.
End of Unit 2 Notes | Prepared for DSM 351 | Knowlet