The crisis of Parliament and the outbreak of the First Civil War, 1640–1642 Flashcards
- The Recall of Parliament (1640)
Q: Why did Charles I recall Parliament in 1640?
A: After defeat in the Second Bishops’ War, he needed money to fund his government, leading to the Short Parliament (April–May 1640) and later the Long Parliament (from November 1640).
- Strengths and Weaknesses of Charles I
Q: What were Charles I’s main strengths and weaknesses in 1640?
A: Strengths: belief in Divine Right, control of the army, loyal advisers. Weaknesses: poor communication, financial instability, and growing opposition.
- Strengths and Divisions of Parliamentary Opposition
Q: What divisions existed in the opposition to Charles I?
A: Radical MPs, led by John Pym, wanted major constitutional changes, while moderates sought compromise, causing internal tensions.
- John Pym and Parliamentary Radicalism
Q: Who was John Pym, and why was he significant?
A: A leading parliamentary radical who pushed for restrictions on royal power, mobilized public support, and drove key reforms like the Grand Remonstrance.
- The Grand Remonstrance (1641)
Q: What was the Grand Remonstrance, and why was it important?
A: A document listing Charles I’s abuses of power, demanding reforms. It deepened divisions in Parliament and fueled tensions with the King.
- The Execution of Strafford (1641)
Q: Why was Strafford executed, and what were the consequences?
A: Parliament saw him as a symbol of royal tyranny. His execution (May 1641) weakened Charles, making him appear unable to protect his supporters.
- The Failed Arrest of the Five Members (1642)
Q: What happened when Charles I attempted to arrest five MPs?
A: On January 4, 1642, Charles entered the House of Commons to arrest five leading MPs, but they had fled. This act outraged Parliament and the London mob, worsening the crisis.
- The Irish Rebellion (1641) and its Impact
Q: How did the Irish Rebellion of 1641 escalate tensions in England?
A: Reports of massacres fueled fears of a Catholic plot, leading Parliament to demand control of the army, which Charles refused.
- The Formation of a Royalist Party
Q: How did Charles I try to reassert control?
A: He gathered support from conservative nobles and Anglicans, forming the Royalist faction, while Parliament rallied Puritans and reformers.
- The Slide into War (1642)
Q: What events led directly to the outbreak of civil war?
A: Charles left London, raised his standard at Nottingham in August 1642, and both sides began military preparations, officially starting the First Civil War.
