Impeachment History in the United States

Impeachment History

Introduction to Impeachment History

Impeachment originated in the English Parliament during the 14th century. It was used to punish royal ministers accused of misconduct, and to hold the king’s ministers accountable to Parliament. The House of Lords initially exercised the exclusive right of impeachment. In 1376 impeachment became the responsibility of the House of Commons, with the House of Lords maintaining the right to try the accused officeholder. The last British official to be removed as a result of impeachment proceedings was convicted in 1806. The American colonies inherited English traditions of impeachment, but modified them to discourage their use as a means of political warfare.” (1)

Resources

Notes and References

• Information about Impeachment History in the Encarta Online Encyclopedia

Guide to Impeachment History