Attacks on Charles’ government Flashcards
What was the long parliament like?
It met in November 1640 and was made up from a majority of MPs who had won their seats after a contest, it was clear that many distrusted the crown’s policies.
What did puritans in the long parliament want?
They saw parliament as the best defense against popery and wanted to ensure that its place in the constitution was safe. They also wanted to make changes to the church.
Explain what moderates in the long parliament wanted
They wanted to undo the innovations of the 1630s then return to the status quo.
What did everyone in the long parliament want?
To punish those associated with the personal rule and to dismantle the financial and religious innovations of the 1630s.
Who were the junto?
Parliamentarians led by Pym, they wanted to undo the innovations of the 1630s and to play a vital part in government. They made effective speeches and dominated important committees.
Why was Strafford hated?
He was hated for his association with the personal rule, he was also feared because he had a large Irish army at his disposal which could be turned on parliament in England.
Why was it so hard to put Strafford on trial?
He could not really be accused of treason because he had been acting with the consent of the king. They decided that all of his actions amounted to collective treason.
What happened during Strafford’s trial in may 1641?
It was held in public and Strafford defended himself well and the trial stretched out. MPs thus moved to have him attained, this would see his guilt declared and then voted on. Charles would have to agree to this.
Did Charles agree to the act of attainder?
Yes, he had little choice as the London mob was used to stir up angry crowds. He feared for his family and signed the act of attainder, he would never forgive the junto.
When was Strafford executed?
May 1641 in front of a crowd of 200,000, Charles was left distraught.
What was the triennial act of 1641?
It said that parliament had to be called once every 3 years and that the present parliament could not be dissolved without its own consent. It angered Charles, but financial necessity forced him to sign.
List three things parliament outlawed/abolished in 1641
- Non parliamentary taxation and customs charges without parliamentary consent. 2. The star chamber and court of high commission. 3. Ship money and distraint of knighthood.
What were the consequences of the remedial measures of 1641?
They made Charles dependent upon parliament for finance and removed the possibility of him using law courts to impose his will.
Why was Pym so effective?
He secured control of key committees, he used his associates to maintain a high degree of unity and he used his contacts in the city of london to organize demonstrations in favor of his proposals.
What did Pym understand that others didn’t?
The government could not function without adequate revenue, he saw the high costs of the English army, which needed to be paid off and the scottish army, which had already cost £230,000.
