The problem of Charles I: divisions within the army and Parliament; the trial and execution of the King
After the Second Civil War, Parliament and the army split over what to do with Charles I. A minority forced through his trial and execution in January 1649.
Real World
Pride's Purge on 6 December 1648, when Colonel Thomas Pride physically barred over 140 Presbyterian MPs from entering Parliament, left a 'Rump' of around 60 Independent MPs willing to try the King — a coup by a military minority acting against the majority of elected representatives.
Exam Focus
Stress that the trial was constitutionally unprecedented — no English law allowed subjects to try their king — and examiners expect this point in any 'significance' question.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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