Short Parliament Flashcards
When did Charles visit Strafford and what did he recommend Charles do?
In September 1639, Charles met with Strafford from Ireland, who advised him to call Parliament, winning them over with bribes and anti-Scottish patriotism. He consulted the Privy Council secretly and was told that he should call new Parliament, leading to a letter being intercepted from the Scots to the King of France, asking for help. Parliament needed to rally to Charles’ cause.
What happened at the Short Parliament?
The King demanded taxes be voted first. and Strafford was late in Ireland due to illness. The Commons, led by Pym and Hampden, wanted Charles to account to Personal Rule, and when religion was mentioned, Parliament was dissolved.
Why had the Parliament failed?
Charles had not had Parliament for 11 years, and he realised grievances needed addressing. Charles would have to resort to prerogative taxing.
Moderate MPs wanted Parliament to succeed, believing that the King and Parliament could heal the nations wounds.
The Scots didn’t want success, as this would result in Charles making more money for war. But only an English Parliament could protect Scotland from Charles’ religious policy.
The godly party didn’t want to grant Charles subsidies to fight war against the Scots. The godly party couldn’t benefit from defeat of the Covenanters.
