English Civil War
Definition
The English Civil War (1642-1651) was a series of armed conflicts and political machinations between Parliamentarians ("Roundheads") and Royalists ("Cavaliers"). It ended with the victory of the Parliamentarians, the execution of King Charles I, and the establishment of a republican Commonwealth.
Analogy
Think about it like a high-stakes game of chess. The king (Charles I) makes moves that upset other players (Parliament). They retaliate, leading to an intense battle for control over the board (England). In this case, however, it's not just checkmate - the king is removed from play entirely.
Related terms
Monarchy: A form of government where power is held by one individual who inherits their position and rules until death or abdication.
Commonwealth: A political community founded for the common good. In this context, it refers to England as a republic following the civil war.
Oliver Cromwell: An English military leader who played a key role in overthrowing Charles I during the English Civil War. He later became Lord Protector of England during its period as a Commonwealth.
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Subjects (1)
Practice Questions (20+)
Who was the leader of the Roundhead Parliamentarians during the English Civil War?
What was the main cause of the English Civil War?
Which set of people were the Cavaliers in the English Civil War?
What was the main outcome of the English Civil War and the Glorious Revolution?
Who primarily led opposition against Charles I that resulted in English civil war during mid-17th century?
Which of the following was a significant difference between the English Civil War and the French Wars of Religion during the 16th and 17th centuries?
Which event led to the start of the English Civil War in the 17th century?
How did the English Civil War (1642–1651) compare with the French Revolution (1789–1799) in terms of their effects on political power?
What was the main cause of the English Civil War?
What major influence did the English Civil War have on the balance of political power in England?
Among these aspects, which remained persistent in defining England's political landscape during the English Civil War and after the Glorious Revolution?
What was the primary goal of Oliver Cromwell's declaration during the English Civil War?
How did the English Civil War mirror similar political struggles during the French Revolution?
How does King George III's loss of control over American colonies relate to King Charles I’s failure during the English Civil War?
Which Stuart king was executed during English Civil War for challenging Parliament's authority?
What was a major cause of the English Civil War in the 17th century?
What was a significant international consequence of the English Civil War?
How does Thomas Hobbes's work "Leviathan" reflect its historical situation during the English Civil War?
How might European history differ if Charles I of England had successfully avoided his execution during the English Civil War?
How does the conservatism displayed in the Concert of Europe compare with that shown during the English Civil War?
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