70 likes | 226 Views
England: The Decline of “Absolutism” and the English Civil War. Unit 2 - Day 7. A Short History of Parliament. Question: What is Parliament? . Westminster Palace – Home to Parliament since 1295. A Short History of Parliament.
E N D
England: The Decline of “Absolutism” and the English Civil War Unit 2 - Day 7
A Short History of Parliament • Question: What is Parliament? Westminster Palace – Home to Parliament since 1295
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 1341-1628 – 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 1629-1640 Charles I dissolves Parliament for 11 years 1640- Wars in Scotland force Charles to call Parliament to grant taxes 1640-1660 – “Long Parliament” meets
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)
“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
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?
Interregnum: From Commonwealth to Protectorate • Question: Who was Oliver Cromwell? The New Model Army at the Battle of Nasby Oliver Cromwell, Lord Protector 1653-1658