The Relationship of Charles I and the Parliament in 1629

The Relationship of Charles I and the Parliament in 1629

In 1629 Charles I dismissed Parliament and forbade people to speak of

calling another, this was the start of Personal Rule. In the body of

this essay the events and disputes that led to this situation will be

explored fully.

Charles himself was described as aloof and unyielding. He believed

strongly in divine right, he saw any critcism as being potentially

treacherous. His communication skills were also poor, his aloof style

meant his speeches to parliament were rebukes and he would allow no

counter arguments. These factors of his personality were to have

damaging effects in his relationship with the country at large.

During 1625-29 the gap between the political nation and the Kings

court began to widen. Charles only took advise from his court.

Buckingham effectively controlled the court right up to his

assassination. He dismissed any agitators from court and controlled

the flow of patronage. This had damaging effects on the political

nation and their relationship with the King.

Patronage was a way of spreading goodwill towards the crown and

ensuring important subjects stayed loyal. By only giving patronage to

Buckingham's clients the court was weakening the links and support

from the powerful political nation. This would come into play when

Charles wanted favors from Parliament. This break down in the flow of

patronage allowed discontent to grow, that could have easily been

defused.

Also as the court became isolated and full of 'yes men', subjects

denied a voice court took to Parliament or the Lords as platforms to

offer alternative ideas. As the court often failed to explain itself

to Parliament resentment grew alongside hostility to the crown.

Charles I also had a habit of attacking opposition to Buckingham head

on. He appointed opposition MP's to high office (i.e. Sheriff), to

stop them from participating in Parliament. However this was not

always beneficial as other more vocal opponents simply stepped in,

John Elliot became one of Buckingham's most vocal opponent after

turning sides from being one of his clients.