Causes of the English Civil War

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  • Causes of the English Civil War
    • Religion
      • Charles married a French Roman Catholic Henrietta Maria. This was seen as controversial as England was a Protestant country.
      • William Laud, one of Charles I top advisers, introduced unpopular church reforms which made him a suspected Roman Catholic.
      • In 1637, Charles tried to introduce a new prayer book in Scotland which caused outrage.
      • Most members of Parliament were Puritan and disapproved of Charles' Catholic connections.
    • Power
      • Charles, like his father James I, strongly believed in the Divine Right of Kings which made him seem arrogant.
        • The Divine Right of Kings was a belief that God had chosen the monarch to rule for him and no one could question this choice.
      • Charles ruled without Parliament for 11 years (known as his Personal Rule). These years have been called the 11 years of tyranny.
      • Charles used the private court of the Star Chamber to punish any opponents. He also fined people when he was low on money.
      • In 1642, Charles tried to arrest 5 members of Parliament (The 5 Member Coup) including Oliver Cromwell on a charge of treason but failed.
      • Parliament wanted more power but Charles did not support this. Parliament were concerned he would try to become an absolute monarch.
    • Money
      • Charles was renowned for his extravagant and expensive lifestyle
      • In 1635, he extended Ship Money which usually only applied to coastal towns in times of war, to cover the whole of England.
      • He fought 2 unsuccessful wars with France and Spain.
      • Charles was constantly asking Parliament for more money when he ran out. After the Scottish rebellion in 1640 he asked for money for another war.
      • Illegal and ancient methods of taxation were introduced which meant people were paying a lot more tax.
    • A Divided Country
      • Cavaliers
        • Also known as the Royalists, were supported by most of the gentry.
        • Often from the northern and western regions. Had better horsemen,
        • Generally conservative Protestant or Catholic.
        • Mostly led by Charles' nephew Prince Rupert.
      • Roundheads
        • Also known as the Parliamentari-ans
        • Mainly merchants and traders.
        • Generally from London and the South East. In control of London and the navy which increased their power.
        • Eventually led by Oliver Cromwell.

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