Why the Civil War broke out. Flashcards
Why was/had the political relationship between the monarch and the people been under strain for a long time? (Long Term)
Elizabeth I had defended her prerogative fiercely and the success of her reign had allowed her to do so unchallenged. James I’s relationship wasn’t easy and the issue of money was never solved. Rulers needed to go back to parliament to ask for more money etc. and that meant that the MPs could take the opportunity to press for reforms they wanted.
How were religious problems a cause for the civil war? (Long term)
Elizabeth I had established a moderate Protestant Church and refused to agree to any changes, leading to resentment among Puritans. James I was no more inclined for reforms so the resentment festered. The Roman Catholic Church was becoming more militant and many Protestants feared a European Catholic conspiracy to overthrow them. Both issues were unresolved when Charles came to the throne in 1625.
How was the Role of Charles responsible?
He failed to build a working relationship with parliament and then ruled without one for eleven years. His support for Laudian reforms angered the Puritans. In addition, he was difficult in negotiation and not ready to compromise.
How did the outbreak of war come about? (part 1)
The personal rule worried opposition leaders like Lord Saye and Sele that Charles was trying to be an absolute ruler and to bring in a Church which was Catholic. Once Charles had to call parliament, then reforms were bound to be demanded and thus make the relationship worse..
How did the outbreak of war come about? (part 2)
Pyme and other opponents worked with the Scots to deepen the crisis and make it impossible for Charles to escape. But the extreme concessions which the opposition urged on Charles alarmed the less radical MPs and the Lords and led to the building up of a pro-Charles party.
How did the outbreak of war come about? (part 3)
Charles precipitated events by the attempted arrest of the five MPs. Parliament wanted to take more powers from the crown than was acceptable to moderates. Finally, there was a much-divided opinion about religion, with future royalists wanting to keep Bishops and have limited reforms, while the Puritan radicals wanted substantial change.
