During the First Civil War (1642-1645), the king's forces were defeated at Edgehill, Marston Moor and Naseby. In the Second Civil War (1648-1649), the Scots came to support the king but were defeated at Preston. The king surrendered and was executed in January 1649.
The civil war was a consequence of long-standing tensions between the Crown and Parliament. These tensions had been exacerbated by the religious and political policies of Charles I, who was determined to assert his authority over Parliament and to impose a uniform religious settlement.
The political issues at the heart of the conflict were:
- The power of the monarchy: Charles I believed in the divine right of kings and sought to rule without Parliament's consent. Parliament, on the other hand, sought to limit the King's powers and establish its own authority.
- The role of Parliament: Parliament wanted to play a significant role in decision-making and legislation. Charles I, however, saw Parliament as a mere advisory body.
- Religious divisions: The King supported the established Church of England and sought to suppress other religious groups, particularly the Puritans. Many members of Parliament were Puritans who favored greater religious freedom.
- Financial disagreements: Parliament controlled the purse strings and could refuse to grant the King money. Charles I often resorted to extra-parliamentary measures to raise funds, which angered Parliament.
In addition, personal conflicts between the King and some members of Parliament, including John Pym and John Hampden, further aggravated the tensions. These factors combined to create a situation of mistrust and conflict that ultimately led to civil war.