1. England: The Decline of “Absolutism” and the English Civil War
Unit 2 - Day 7

2. A Short History of Parliament
Question: What is Parliament?
Westminster Palace – Home to Parliament since 1295

3. A Short History of Parliament
Middle Ages: Before Parliament, King’s Council of Nobles and Clergy called to advise on important matters
1215: After a revolt of Barons, King John signs Magna Carta establishes a “Great Council” of nobles who must approve important measures such as taxes
1295: Edward I invites not just nobles but also 2 knights from each shire (rural district) and 2 burghers from each town to act as representatives at the “Model Parliament”
1341: Parliament splits into Upper Chamber (nobles and clergy) and Lower Chamber (knights and burghers) ; after 1544 known as House of Lords and House of Commons
– Parliament meets irregularly, when called by king or queen. Usually called to approve measures (esp. taxes), but can also propose legislation.
- At the same time, when called by the monarch Parliament has an opportunity to voice its discontent, and does occasionally fail to approve taxes or issue reciprocal demands
- During this period, Commons becomes very powerful
Charles I dissolves Parliament for 11 years
1640- Wars in Scotland force Charles to call Parliament to grant taxes
– “Long Parliament” meets

4. The Causes of the English Civil War
Question: Why does Absolutism fail in England when it succeeds in France and Russia?
The Stuart Monarchs: James I (left) and Charles I (right)

5. “Roundheads” and “Cavaliers”
In the aftermath of the recall of Parliament, England splits into two warring factions.
Royalist Army
Parliamentary Army
Formed after Parliament refuses to fund the formation of an army to put down rebellion in Scotland and Ireland
Made up of nobles, some rural gentry, mercenaries
Referred to themselves as “cavaliers”
Created in response to Royalist Army
Made up of militia of London, members of rural gentry with business connections, “Puritans” upset by attempts to make Anglican Church more Catholic
Referred to by the Royalists as “roundheads” after the short hairstyles favored by Puritans

6. Civil War or Revolution?
Some historians prefer the term “English Revolution” to “English Civil war,” what reasons might they have for preferring this term?
Which do you believe is more appropriate?

7. Interregnum: From Commonwealth to Protectorate
Question: Who was Oliver Cromwell?
The New Model Army at the Battle of Nasby
Oliver Cromwell, Lord Protector