English Civil War

Definition

The English Civil War (1642-1651) was a series of armed conflicts and political machinations between Parliamentarians ("Roundheads") and Royalists ("Cavaliers"). It ended with the victory of the Parliamentarians, the execution of King Charles I, and the establishment of a republican Commonwealth.

Related terms

Monarchy: A form of government where power is vested in one single person - a king or queen - who rules until death or abdication.

Parliamentarianism: A system of government where power lies with an elected legislature (like Parliament) that has the ability to make and change laws.

Commonwealth: A political community founded for the common good. In this context, it refers to England as a republic following the civil war under Oliver Cromwell's rule.