The Early Reign of Charles I (1625-1629) - Religion

What is Arminianism?

A religious group that had emerged within the Anglican Church, seen as being closest to Catholics (rather than Protestants) in their beliefs.

What did ‘outsiders’ belief about Charles in regards to Arminianism?

That because he had his ‘favourites’ and was not in touch with the views of the Political Nation as a whole, they believed that Catholics or Arminians were in control of the king.

Why was Arminianism a cause of division between Charles and parliament?

Charles believed that his difficulties with parliament in the years 1625-29 were an attempt by Puritans to attack the powers of the Crown. Charles therefore sided with Arminians due to his commitment to their beliefs.

Why was Charles’ siding with the Armianians politically dangerous?

When put into context with his marriage to the Catholic princess, Henrietta Maria, and his foreign policy between 1625-29, it seemed he had a bias towards Catholics.

Who did parliament attack Charles’ support of?

The Arminian cleric, Richard Montagu.

What did Montagu’s 1625 book discuss?

An Anti-Calvinist argument, much to the disgust of Puritans but also other Protestants.

How did Charles respond to parliament’s attacks on Montagu?

Appointed him as his royal chaplain; a clear statement of Charles’ approval of anti-Calvinism.

Which anti-Calvinist preached the opening sermon of first parliament?

William Laud.

What was the York House conference?

A conference held at the request of the Puritan nobleman the Earl of Warwick, and to avoid further pressure in Parliament on religious issues, Charles ‘favourite’ Buckingham chaired a theological debate in his London home, York House.

When did the York House conference take place?

February 1626.

What was the focus of the York House conference?

The writings of Montagu.

What was the outcome of the York House conference?

Warwick intended the conference as a way to persuade Charles to move away from anti-Calvinism, and although Buckingham had links to Warwick, he took a stance in support of the leading anti-Calvinist, William Laud to reinforce his position as the king’s favourite?

What did this demonstrate about Charles’ religious views/policies?

That he would not be dissuaded from supporting anti-Calvinist Arminians as he did not even attend the conference.

How did Arminians view the forced loan?

They supported it and said that refusing to pay the loan was against God’s will, increasing bitterness in Parliament.

What happened in the summer of 1628?

William Laud was appointed as Bishop of London, and Montagu as Bishop of Chichester.