The term refers to the series of armed conflicts and political machinations that took place in England between 1642 and 1651. It primarily pitted the Parliamentarians (also known as Roundheads) against the Royalists (Cavaliers), who supported King Charles I. A key example illustrating the conflict is the execution of Charles I in 1649, a pivotal moment that temporarily abolished the monarchy and established the Commonwealth of England.
Understanding this period is crucial for grasping the development of constitutionalism and limited government. It demonstrates the struggle between monarchical power and parliamentary authority, significantly influencing subsequent political thought and contributing to the development of democratic principles. Its impact resonates through colonial history, shaping ideas about self-governance and resistance to perceived tyranny, which later influenced the American Revolution.