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Year 8 - History

Royalists and Parliamentarians

The English Civil War: what can pamphlets tell us about 17th century politics?

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils briefly learn about the causes and conduct of the English Civil War. They then learn about Oliver Cromwell's rule and the restoration of the monarchy. Pupils finish the unit by examining how these events were represented in popular political pamphlets of the day.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain who fought in the English Civil War and why.

Key Notes

  • The English Civil War involved fighting between Royalists and Parliamentarians.
  • The Civil War divided communities and even families.
  • The Parliamentarians were supported by a Scottish army from 1644 - 1646.
  • Pamphlets were used as a form of propaganda by both sides during the Civil War.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Civil War: a civil war is a war between two groups from the same country
  • Royalist: a Royalist was a supporter of King Charles I during the English Civil War, (also known as Cavaliers)
  • Parliamentarian: a Parliamentarian was a supporter of Parliament during the English Civil War, (also known as Roundheads)
  • Puritan: a Puritan was a person with very strict Protestant beliefs
  • propaganda: propaganda is information, often false, which is published by a person or group to make others agree with them

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Primary sources are inherently useful because they were published at the time of an event.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Summarise this historical learning in two key ideas.

The English Civil War involved fighting between Royalists and Parliamentarians. The Civil War divided communities and even families.

2. Define this history term and explain why it matters in this topic. 'Civil War'

a civil war is a war between two groups from the same country.

3. Correct this common history misconception using evidence language.

Mistake: Primary sources are inherently useful because they were published at the time of an event. Correction: Sources are produced for a variety of purposes which can affect what they say. Propaganda sources might falsify information to persuade.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 8 History guide library.