Charles I: Events Of Civil War, Trial & Execution

Question 1

When did the Civil War begin?

Answer 1

1642. Each side has raised an army and Charles declared war on Parliament

Question 2

Explain the two sides of the of the Civil War

Answer 2

Royalists - They were lead by King Charles and, at the beginning of the war, controlled areas of the North and West

Parliamentarians - Lead by Sir Thomas Fairfax and, at the beginning of the war, controlled London, areas of the South

Question 3

State the results and dates of the Battle of Marston Moor

Answer 3

1644. The Scots and Parliamentarians defeated Prince Rupert, securing control of the North

Question 4

State the results and dates of the Battle of Naseby

Answer 4

1645. The New Model Army defeated Charles’ army, capturing his artillery, treasure and letters

Question 5

When was Charles I executed?

Answer 5

30th January, 1649

Question 6

Explain two points as to why the trial of Charles I could be seen as unpopular

Answer 6

Many people were reluctant to be involved in Charles’ trial - Only 68 of the 135 judges turned up. Only 59 of the 68 judges signed Charles’ death warrant

Question 7

Explain two points as to why the trial of Charles I could be seen as unfair

Answer 7

All of the judges who attended the trial were supporters of Parliament. Charles was not allowed to be in court whilst witnesses gave evidence against him.

Question 8

State the key details of Charles’ execution

Answer 8

Charles wore two shirts so he wouldn’t shiver in the cold making him seem like a coward. At 2pm, Charles’ was beheaded and the crowd were shocker. The executioner did not say anything to hide his identity. The crowd dipped their handkerchiefs in his blood and his head was sewn back on. Charles was buried in a private chapel at Windsor Castle