Early Stuart England

1638

Charles finally starts treating the situation in Scotland seriously. However, he is torn between finding a political solution and a more direct, military one.

1637-8

In the absence of a coherent state response, the Scottish Prayer Book Rebellion morphs into a provisional government.  At its core is the Covenant, a bold statement of religious and political principles.

1637

Charles and William Laud attempt to impose an English-style Book of Common Prayer in Scotland. It does not go well.

1637-8

When Charles rejects their request for a parliament, the Providence Island gang decides to force the King's hand by challenging Ship Money collections in court.

1637

In an effort to stamp out Puritanism, William Laud has three religious radicals publicly mutilated.

1630-1636

Charles encourages a flourishing of painting, poetry, and theatre that articulates and supports his larger ideological project.

1635-1636

As France fully commits to the conflict on the continent, Charles hopes to take advantage by selling his Ship Money fleet to the highest bidder.

1635

The death of Lord Treasurer Richard Weston opens up a stiff competition at court to replace him.  The outcome of the contest will shape future English policy.

1634-1635

Seeking to once again insert England into European geo-politics, Charles implements a revenue raising scheme to pay for a powerful navy - Ship Money.

1634

A massive drainage project in the marshlands of East Anglia creates tensions between the Crown, local land owners, and commoners.