The English Civil War

This first episode takes an in-depth look at the years between the accession of King Charles I in 1625 and the opening conflict of the war at the battle of Edgehill in 1642. The programme explores the complex web of of political, social, religious and military issues that were the root causes of the war.

This second episode unravels the story of the early and middle phases of the conflict. This period saw fortunes fluctuate at the battles and sieges of Gloucester, Bristol, Newbury and Marston Moor.

This third episode recounts the events that eventually led to the King's execution. The King's cause was dealt a fatal blow by the calamitous defeat of his forces at the battle of Naseby in1645, and the increasing influence of Oliver Cromwell.

This final episode examines the slaughters at Drogheda and Wexford, the defeat of the Scottish army at Worcester, the role of Cromwell as Lord Protector, and England as a Commonwealth. It concludes with the restoration of the monarchy after Cromwell's death in 1658.