The English Civil War 1640-49
Course organiser: John Miller
Level: 2
This course considers political and religious developments in England from the first meeting of the Long Parliament in 1640 to the execution of Charles I in 1649. After considering reasons for the outbreak of civil war, it examines the problems faced by both sides in mobilising men and money and the political arguments which they used. It will conclude by attempting to unravel the complex politics of 1646-48, which culminated in Pride's Purge and the King's execution. Students wishing to take this course will find that some knowledge of seventeenth-century English history will be useful, but it is not essential.