⚔️The English Civil War, Republic and Restoration

How conflict between king and Parliament led to a republic, then a king again.

1. Divine Right of Kings

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   Charles I believed in the Divine Right of Kings, the idea that the king was appointed by God to rule. He tried to govern without seeking Parliament's approval.

2. Parliament refuses funds

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   When Charles needed funds for an army, he recalled Parliament in 1640. Many MPs were Puritans who disliked his religious reforms, and Parliament refused him.

   but when he needed money

3. Civil war begins 1642

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   Civil war broke out between the king and Parliament. The country split into Cavaliers, who supported the king, and Roundheads, who supported Parliament.

   so in 1642

4. Charles I executed 1649

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   The king's army was defeated and by 1646 Parliament had won. Charles refused to reach agreement and in 1649 he was executed.

   Parliament won and so

5. The Commonwealth republic

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   England declared itself a republic called the Commonwealth, with no monarch. Oliver Cromwell became Lord Protector and ruled until his death in 1658.

   which meant

6. The Restoration 1660

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   With no clear leader, Parliament invited Charles II back from exile in 1660. He was crowned king, understanding he must sometimes reach agreement with Parliament.