The trial and execution of the king Flashcards
Why was Charles put on public trial?
The army and MPs wanted to cloak their actions in legal form. Many MPs did not want to try the king at all.
What happened 6th December 1648?
Colonel pride and his regiment turned up at parliament and turned away all members who had voted to continue negotiations with the king. This was known as pride’s purge and the remaining MPs became known as the rump.
Explain the biggest issue with the trial
The court claimed to represent the will of the people, the reality was that very few people wanted to put the king on trial.
How did Charles act at the trial?
He was dignified, he refused to even enter a plea as he refused to accept the authority of the court. Regardless of how well he conducted himself, it is important to note that the outcome had already been decided.
What was the importance of Charles’ death?
He was beheaded January 1649 and used to it paint himself as a Martyr of the people. In dying with dignity he did much to pave the way for a future restoration of the monarchy.
What was the role of Cromwell in the trial?
He had not even spoken about it until December 1648 and was originally averse to the idea, but the king’s actions (the second civil war) convinced him that god was against monarchy.
How did the majority of people react to the execution?
They were horrified at the regicide, this was not a good base upon which to build the new Republic.
What did the rump do after the execution?
In march they abolished the monarchy and the House of Lords, the fact that this took so long to do shows just how conservative they were.
What did the challenge to the established order of things do?
It led to a growth in radical movements such as the levelers, led by john Lilburne.
According to the leveler humble petition, what had parliament failed to do?
Make all things common, reform the law, abolish tithes, introduce freedom of conscience, free trade restrictions.
