3. The 1st Civil War 1642-46 Flashcards
Why was Charles in a strong position at the outbreak of the war?
Charles had the support of most of the nobility and the gentry and many royalist generals were professional soldiers who had fought in the Thirty Years War. The Parliamentarians were led by the Earl of Essex, who wasn’t a skilled military leader.
What happened at the Battle of Edgehill in 1642?
Both armies had been travelling parallel to each other, 20 miles apart, and then made contact when their quartermasters ran into each other while collecting provisions. The Royalists had been travelling to march on London, while the Parliamentarians had been travelling to block them. The battle ended inconclusively, with both sides claiming victory. The Royalist forces then marched south however they were held up at Turnham Green by a large group of volunteers who prevented them from taking the capital.
What did the royalists aim to do to London in 1643?
They organised themselves to make a three-pronged attack on London from the North, South-west and the West. But the Parliamentarians had control of the Navy and used the bases in Hull, Plymouth and Gloucester to provide strongholds for parliamentary forces, deterring the royalists from attacking London.
What did the Scots do in 1643?
The Scottish concluded the Solemn League and Covenant, promising to aid the Parliamentarians against the Royalists.
What happened in 1644 that turned the tide of the war in Parliament’s favour?
They controlled London so therefore controlled the banks and the finances as well as the resources like ammunition and weapons that had been stored in London prior to the war.
What battle occurred in 1644?
The Battle of Marston Moor in Yorkshire, which was the largest battle ever on fought in England. It was a victory for the Parliamentarians, as they overpowered the Royalists with their combined effort with the Scots. This meant that the Royalists lost control of the North.
What significant changes occurred in Parliament’s army in 1645?
Under the Self-Denying Ordinance, all members of parliament that had military commands resigned, and were replaced by generals with proven military ability, skills and experience. This implementation of a meritocracy confirmed the growing strength of the parliamentary position. Then, Parliamentary forces were reorganised into a single army - the New Model Army. It’s commander was Sir Thomas Fairfax and it’s cavalry commander was Oliver Cromwell.
What proves that the New Model Army was crucial in Parliament’s conduct of the war?
They completely overwhelmed the Royalist forces at the June 1645 Battle of Naseby and then the New Model Army continued to defeat the Royalist forces in the West and South-west.
What happened in 1646 that ended the 1st Civil War?
As royalist forces lost ground throughout the country, Charles left his stronghold at Oxford and surrendered to the Scots. In June, Oxford was taken by Parliament which ended the 1st Civil War.
