Join us as we delve into the tumultuous 17th century with Mark Turnbull, host of the Cavalier Cast podcast and author of "Charles I's Private Life." Together with host Paul Bavill, they tackle the misconceptions surrounding the English Civil War, or the War of Three Kingdoms, and its alleged ties to democracy.

Challenging the Myth:

• Mark Turnbull disputes the notion that the civil wars were a struggle for democracy, arguing that both royalists and parliamentarians were far from democratic ideals.
• He asserts that the wars were more about religious and power struggles rather than any social revolution.

The Role of the Levellers:

• Discusses the Levellers as a political movement pushing for more social change than the mainstream parliamentarians and Oliver Cromwell.
• Explains how their influence grew within the New Model Army but ultimately did not lead to the democratic changes they desired.

Re-examining Key Battles:

• Highlights the Battle of Naseby as a turning point but criticises its portrayal as the birthplace of democracy.
• Explores lesser-known but significant battles like Preston and Winwick that had a profound impact on the power dynamics of the time.

The Danger of Oversimplification:

• Warns against the glorification of certain battles and figures, which can lead to a skewed understanding of history.
• Emphasises the importance of appreciating the complexities and motivations of the time to truly learn from history.

Connect with Mark Turnbull:

• Twitter: @1642author
• Charles I's Private Life: Available at the History Rage Bookshop.
• Listen to the Cavalier Cast for more on 17th-century history.

Follow up on Naseby with the Naseby Battlefield Project

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Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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