The English Civil War (1642-1649)

The English Civil War was fought between supporters of King Charles I (Cavaliers/Royalists) and supporters of Parliament (Roundheads), led by Oliver Cromwell. The conflict was about the balance of power between the king and Parliament. Charles I believed in the 'Divine Right of Kings'. Parliament won the war. Charles I was tried for treason and executed in 1649. England became a republic (the Commonwealth) with Cromwell as Lord Protector until his death in 1658.