Although the actual dates vary, May 12th, 1653 marks the date when England took a small step closer to democracy. Oliver Cromwell dissolved the existing parliament in order to establish a new one, thereby creating England’s first written constitution called the Instrument of Government.

After leading the overthrow of the British monarchy, defeating King Charles I and bringing to an end the monarchy’s claim to absolute power, Cromwell ruled England as a Republic from 1653 until his death. Although many agree that Cromwell ruled the commonwealth as a military dictator, his contribution to the written government constitution and thereby the power of the people, is indisputable.

Read more on Oliver Cromwell at Wikipedia.
Read more about the Instrument of Government.
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