Political and religious radicalism: the politicisation of the New Model Army; Lilburne and the Levellers; Fifth Monarchists; Ranters and other populist groups
During the 1640s and 1650s, soldiers, preachers and ordinary people pushed for radical changes to politics and religion. Groups like the Levellers demanded legal equality, while others expected God to overturn the entire social order.
Real World
At the Putney Debates in 1647, Colonel Thomas Rainsborough — an army officer representing Leveller views — famously argued that 'the poorest he that is in England hath a life to live as the greatest he', a direct challenge to the property-based franchise that astonished his senior officers.
Exam Focus
Distinguish clearly between groups: Levellers wanted legal/political reform; Fifth Monarchists wanted godly rule; Ranters rejected all authority — conflating them loses marks.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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