The English Civil War

In the 1640s, England was torn apart by a civil war. On one side was King Charles I, who believed he had the right to rule however he wanted. On the other side was Parliament, a group of leaders who thought the king had too much power. The two sides fought for years. In the end, Parliament won. King Charles I was put on trial and executed. It was one of the most shocking events in English history.

Why the War Started

King Charles I often argued with Parliament. He wanted to raise taxes without their permission. He also tried to change how people worshipped. Many people in Parliament thought the king was being unfair. When Charles tried to arrest some members of Parliament, war broke out. People across England had to choose sides. Those who supported the king were called Cavaliers. Those who supported Parliament were called Roundheads.

Oliver Cromwell and the Aftermath

A man named Oliver Cromwell became the leader of Parliament's army. He was a brilliant military leader who helped win the war. After the war, King Charles I was put on trial and found guilty. In 1649, he was executed. England became a republic for a short time, with Cromwell as its leader. After Cromwell died, the English people brought back the monarchy and crowned Charles II as the new king.

Fun Facts

• Cavaliers had long, flowing hair while Roundheads had short haircuts, which is how they got their nicknames.
• King Charles I wore two shirts to his execution so he would not shiver and look afraid.
• Oliver Cromwell banned Christmas celebrations in England for a while!

Did You Know?

The English Civil War was one of the first times in European history that a king was put on trial and executed by his own people.