What happened during the civil war? - Info sheet

The English Civil War, a pivotal series of conflicts, commenced in 1642 when Charles I raised his royal standard in Nottingham, signifying the start of hostilities. The root of the war lay in the profound and irreconcilable differences between the King and Parliament, with both sides staunchly adhering to their beliefs and unwilling to find common ground. As tensions escalated, war emerged as the unfortunate but sole resolution to their longstanding disputes. The conflict was marked by a series of battles that ultimately led to the defeat and subsequent execution of Charles I in January 1649.

Following the King's execution, the Commonwealth of England was established, effectively replacing the monarchy with a republic that lasted from 1649 until 1660. Oliver Cromwell became the de facto ruler of this Commonwealth, assuming the title of Lord Protector in 1653. His governance lasted until his death in 1658, after which the Commonwealth began to falter, leading to the eventual restoration of the monarchy. The English Civil War was a significant period of upheaval and transformation, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's political and social landscape.