Harry Graham
The Mother of Parliaments
"The Mother of Parliaments" by Harry Graham is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book provides a comprehensive exploration of the history and evolution of the English Parliament, emphasizing its significance to the country and its people. It examines the governmental structure, the dynamics between the Houses of Lords and Commons, and the historical context that shaped parliamentary procedures and responsibilities. The opening of the text introduces the author's intent behind the work: to present a detailed yet accessible narrative about the English Parliament's history and its relevance to modern governance. Graham reflects on the widespread interest in parliamentary affairs and the transformation of political representation over time. He outlines the historical roots of parliamentary governance from the ancient Witenagemot to contemporary practices, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for political power between the monarchy and the populace. Notably, he sets the stage for a deeper exploration into parliamentary structure and function in subsequent chapters.