Cromwell's Commonwealth! Flashcards
1
Q
Why did the execution of Charles I astonish the people of England?
A
The execution of Charles I astonished the people of England who, for the first time in their history, were not ruled by a monarch.
2
Q
Who was England ruled by, instead?
A
Instead, England was ruled by 140 Members of Parliament, nicknamed the ‘Rump Parliament’, as only the most radical members had been allowed to remain following the Pride’s Purge.
3
Q
When was England declared a commonwealth and what did this mean?
A
England was declared a ‘Commonwealth’ on 16th May 1649, meaning it would be ruled in the common interest of the people. Three days later, on 19th May 1649, the House of Lords was abolished. Many thought that they lived in a ‘world turned upside-down’.
