CIVIL WAR IN LONDON: Voices from the City

The English Civil War between King Charles I and Parliament during the 1640s caused some of the most tumultuous years in British history as society found itself 'by the sword divided' and neighbours disagreed on politics, religion and the economy. This stunning book looks at the conflict by taking apart the history of London at the time. Discover how a rift began to grow between King Charles I and parliament in January 1642 when the monarch made two constitutional errors, firstly invading the Commons, and then Guildhall, in search of five members of parliament, and secondly by leaving London entirely, abandoning the government as a result. Learn about the monumental Militia Ordinance, passed on 5 March 1642 to give parliament the power to appoint military commanders without the king's approval. While the ordinance itself asserted its purpose was to protect the king and kingdom's safety, it is thought of as one of the first steps that led to war in August that year. The book includes fantastic black and white photos of parts of London today to help readers visualise the history. The site of the Haberdashers' Hall in Gresham Street appears via a shot of the City of London plaque, a photographic reference to the book's detail that the Worshipful Company of Haberdashers purchased 150 muskets for the parliamentarian cause in 1643. There is a photo of a section of the old Roman Wall, with enhancements, which formed the inner ring of defence for the City of London during the war. Busts are also pictured, including likenesses of King Charles I and Oliver Cromwell who rose from military commander during the civil wars to the country's Lord Protector. Paperback, black and white images, thorough endnotes, 140pp.