What was the role of parliament in the 16th and 17th centuries?

In the 16th and 17th centuries, Parliament in England played a crucial role in the governance of the country, particularly as a counterbalance to royal authority. It was responsible for enacting laws, granting taxes, and representing the interests of different social classes, especially the gentry and emerging middle class. This period saw significant conflicts between Parliament and the monarchy, culminating in events like the English Civil War, which underscored Parliament's growing power and the shift towards constitutional governance. Ultimately, these developments laid the groundwork for the modern British parliamentary system.