Charles I was the king of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 27 March 1625 until his execution in 1649. He was born on 19 November 1600 in Dunfermline Palace, Scotland, the second son of James VI of Scotland (who later also became James I of England) and Anne of Denmark. Charles succeeded his father to the thrones of England, Scotland, and Ireland in 1625, and began his personal rule without the guidance of a regent. During his reign, Charles faced several political and religious crises, the most significant of which was the English Civil War (1642–1651) between the Royalists (supporters of Charles) and the Parliamentarians (opponents of Charles). The war ended with the defeat of the Royalists and Charles was captured and charged with high treason by the Parliamentarians. He was found guilty and was executed by beheading at Whitehall Palace on 30 January 1649. It was the first time in English history that a reigning monarch had been executed. After the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660, Charles was venerated as a martyr king by Royalists.
During his reign, Charles I faced several major events, some of which include:
During Charles I reign, several important issues arose that contributed to the tension and conflicts that ultimately led to the English Civil War. Some of the most significant issues include:
Reference: Article by Greg Scott (Staff Historian), 2024