Selly Manor: Tudors

Civil War Era

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England was in a confused political and religious state that led to a civil war from 1642 ~ 1649. These events changed the society, leading to the way the government is run today.

The Civil War was between KIng Charles I with his royalist supporters known as Cavaliers, and the Roundheads or Parliamentary opponents. They were famously led by Oliver Cromwell.

Charles attempted to rule without parliament. By 1644 the Parliamentarians had gained the upper hand. Charles was defeated and executed in 1649.

Charles' son was crowned King of Scotland but was forced into exile until Cromwell's regime collapsed. Then from 1660 he ruled as Charles II handling the difficult political situation well.

There were many skirmishes in the Midlands and Birmingham, as a centre for weapons production played its part. In October 1642 there was a battle at Kings Norton, and the Battle of Birmingham in 1643. There were also skirmishes locally in what is now Bournville.

Colonal Wray, a parliamentarian, owned the local grand residence, Bournbrook Hall above (since demolished). Some of Cromwell's men stayed therewhen there was fighting in the area. Bullets from that time have been found in the vicinity.

Find out more about the Civil War