Charles I

Charles I

Son of James I, King of England from 1625 to 1649, known for his belief in the divine right of kings.

Divine Right of Kings

The idea that kings get their power from God, rather than from the people.

Petition of Rights

A key document from 1628 that listed the rights of people and was created to limit the king's powers, especially regarding taxes and arrests.

Ship Money

A tax originally for coastal areas to pay for naval defense, which Charles I demanded from all households.

Long Parliament

The Parliament called by Charles I in 1640 that lasted until 1660, known for challenging the king and emphasizing the authority of Parliament.

Royalists

Supporters of Charles I during the English Civil War, also known as Cavaliers.

Parliamentarians

Opponents of Charles I during the English Civil War, also known as Roundheads.

Henryetta Maria

The Catholic daughter of the King of France and wife of Charles I.

Civil War (1642–1649)

The war between the Royalists, who supported King Charles I, and the Parliamentarians, who wanted more power for Parliament, fighting over how England should be governed.

Art Patronage

Support of artists and the arts, shown through Charles I's funding of artists like Rubens and Van Dyck