1642
The king, Charles, raised his standard at Nottingham in what is accepted by historians as a sign by the king that he intended to fight Parliament for power in England. His support came from the nobility, large landowners, the church and from people in the north and west of England. In October, a battle was fought at Edgehill but neither side won it and from a military point of view it was an indecisive battle.
1643
Oliver Cromwell was appointed the leader of Parliamentís cavalry. Parliament made an alliance with the Scots which threatened Charles from the north. Both sides won minor battles but none of them were decisive.
1644
The kingís Royalist army was heavily defeated by Parliament at Marston Moor in Yorkshire. Charles lost control of the north of England.
1645
The New Model Army was formed by Parliament. This exceptionally well trained force inflicted a severe defeat on the army of Charles at Naseby. The king lost his guns and ammunition at the end of this battle.
1646
Charles surrendered to the Scots in the hope that Parliament would fall out on what to do after Naseby. There was conflict in Parliament on how the church in England should be run.
1647
Parliament paid £400,000 to the Scots for Charles. But Parliament was still divided on what to do. As a result the New Model Army, lead by Fairfax and Cromwell, occupied London - a sign of their power. In November, Charles escaped to Carisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight. While here he made a treaty with the Scots.
1648
The Scots invaded England but were beaten at the Battle of Preston. Charles had shown that he could not be trusted and Cromwell was determined that he should be punished. In December, 100 MPís in Parliament voted to put Charles on trial.
1649
Charles had a brief trial and was found guilty of treason. On January 30th, he was executed. The monarchy was quickly abolished soon after.
© Copyright 1998-2011 Sir John Owens Regiment of Foote.
