Roundhead

John Pettie Puritan Roundhead

William Frederick Yeames - And when did you last see your father? - Google Art Project

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Roundheads were the supporters of the Parliament of England during the English Civil War (1642–1651). They fought against King Charles I of England and his supporters, the Cavaliers or Royalists, who claimed absolute power and the divine right of kings. The term "Roundhead" appears to have been first used as a term of derision towards the end of 1641, when debates in Parliament and in Church of England assemblies became increasingly polarized. The Roundheads were named after their typical haircut, which was in stark contrast to the longer ringlets worn by the Cavaliers. The conflict between the Roundheads and the Cavaliers set the stage for the major changes in England's government and the eventual establishment of a Commonwealth of England under Oliver Cromwell.

Origins and Beliefs

The Roundheads were primarily Puritan in religious belief, advocating for a more Protestant-oriented church without the hierarchical structure of the Church of England, which they believed was too similar to the Roman Catholic Church. Their political beliefs leaned towards Parliamentarianism, emphasizing the importance of the Parliament of England in governing, in contrast to the absolute monarchy favored by the Cavaliers.

The English Civil War

The English Civil War was a series of armed conflicts and political machinations between Parliamentarians (Roundheads) and Royalists (Cavaliers). The first (1642–1646), second (1648–1649), and third (1649–1651) civil wars pitted the supporters of King Charles I against the supporters of the Long Parliament, and later the Rump Parliament. The Roundheads, under the command of Oliver Cromwell, proved to be efficient military units. Cromwell's New Model Army was instrumental in the defeat of the Royalists.

Aftermath and Legacy

The victory of the Roundheads led to the trial and execution of King Charles I in 1649. England was declared a Commonwealth and, for a brief period, became a republican form of government under the leadership of Oliver Cromwell. After Cromwell's death and the brief rule of his son, Richard Cromwell, the monarchy was restored in 1660 under King Charles II, marking the end of the Commonwealth.

The Roundheads' legacy is complex. They are remembered for their role in advancing parliamentary democracy and contributing to the development of constitutional monarchy in England. However, the period of the Commonwealth is also marked by military dictatorship and the suppression of dissent.

See Also

• English Civil War
• Oliver Cromwell
• Cavaliers
• Commonwealth of England
• Parliament of England