Charles I's Actions and the Multiple-kingdom Dimension (1640-42) - Long Parliament and Civil War (1640-49)

What was the Army Plot of 1641?

A plot led by Charles I that involved royalist officers trying to intimidate and dissolve Parliament. They planned to free Wentworth from the Tower of London, use the army to seize London, restore Charles’ absolute rule, suppressing parliament as well as opposition to the King’s policies.

How did the Scots react to the increasing tension between King and Parliament in 1641?

Many felt that radicals in the Covenanting alliance had gone too far too fast. In August 1640 the Earl of Montrose and 17 other Scottish nobles signed the Cumbernauld Band, stating a desire to defend the King.

How did Charles respond to this support from the Scots?

He appreciated that this agreement would remove the occupying Scottish army that were a prop for his Long Parliament opponents. He chose to accept the abolition of episcopacy also and the Scottish reforms to date.

When did the King leave for Scotland?

August 1641.

When was the Irish Rebellion?

October 1641 and lasted over the winter of 1641-1642.

Why was the Irish Rebellion significant?

Perceptions of the rebellion in England were more important politically than the reality. The fear of Catholicism meant that some Protestant English politicians became radicalised. This was also fed by the Army Plot of 1641 by which it was supposed that Wentworth would bring the English army in Ireland to England to use against Parliament.

What was the Incident of 1641?

A failed attempt from Charles to assassinate Scottish covenanter leaders as he sought to regain control over Scotland, but this plan was exposed and Charles felt humiliated.

What did the Incident demonstrate to Parliament?

Charles could not be trusted to uphold agreements and that he was willing to use force against opponents which created fear amongst Parliament.

When was the Attempt on the 5 MPs?

January 1642.

What was the Attempt on the 5 MPs?

Charles entered the House of Commons with armed soldiers to arrest MPs who opposed him, accusing them of treason and encouraging rebellion, however, the MPs knew about the Plot and escaped.

What did the Attempt on the 5 MPs signify to Parliament?

That the King wanted to rule by force.

What did Charles do following his failed Attempt on the 5 MPs?

He left London for York, and would not return to London until 1649 to be executed. His exit of London in effect gave Parliament control.

What was one of the major consequences of the Attempt on the 5 MPs?

It strengthened the position of parliamentary radicals who pushed for the Exclusion Bill which would forcefully prevent bishops sitting in the House of Lords.

What did Charles attempt to do in April 1642?

Seize military supplies at Hull without parliamentary knowledge.

When was the Commissions of Array issued?

June 1642.

What was the Commissions of Array?

A response to the Militia Ordinance in which Charles invoked a prerogative means of raising armed forces.

When did the King reply to the Nineteen Propositions?

June 1642.

What did the constitutional royalist’s response to the Nineteen Propositions say on behalf of Charles?

That the king was the force that would prevent anarchy.

When did Charles declare war on Parliament?

22 August 1642 by raising his standard at Nottingham. The English Civil War had officially begun.