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The crisis of Parliament and the outbreak of the First Civil War, 1640–1642 key terms

Study The crisis of Parliament and the outbreak of the First Civil War, 1640–1642 with curriculum-aligned Key Terms resources, practice links, and exam-focused support.

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key terms

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The crisis of Parliament and the outbreak of the First Civil War, 1640–1642

AqaA LevelHistory2E The English Revolution, 1625–1660

Key terms

  • Divine Right of Kings

    The doctrine that kings derive their authority from God, not from their subjects, which was a central belief of Charles I.

  • Long Parliament

    The Parliament that convened in November 1640 and played a pivotal role in the lead-up to the English Civil War.

  • Long Parliament

    The Parliament that lasted from 1640 to 1660, which played a central role in the events leading to the English Civil War.

  • London Mob

    A group of radical citizens in London who actively participated in protests and demonstrations against the King and his policies.

  • Royal Prerogative

    The royal prerogative refers to the powers and privileges that are traditionally exercised by the monarch without the consent of Parliament.

  • Absolutism

    Absolutism is a political doctrine and practice where a single ruler holds absolute power, often justified by divine right, as seen in the reign of Charles I.

  • Long Parliament

    The Parliament that convened in November 1640 and played a crucial role in opposing King Charles I.

  • Covenanters

    Scottish Presbyterians who opposed Charles I's religious policies and played a significant role in the conflicts leading to the Civil War.