2nd Civil War and Regicide (1648-49)

1647, Leveller-influenced soliders offered proposals in the 'Case of Army Truly Stated', drawn up into a potential settlement as the 'Agreement of the People' Met at a chruch in Putney to discuss political settlement.

• Spokesman for the radicals was Rainsborough, demanded complete religious freedom and annual parliaments elected by all adult males. 
• Ireton countered with the claim that voters must be men of property. 
• Cromwell was present but focused on maintaining a level of civility between participants. 

Charles' escpae: 

Putney debates ended when he escaped. Soon in custody again on the Isle of Wight but attempted to escape several times. (wedged between window bars) 

Corkbush Field mutiny: 

CI's escape signalled that Agitators had to return to their regiments. At one army muster at Corkbush field a group of radicals appeared with the Agreement of the People. OC rode into the ranks to restore order and punish their leaders (one was shot)

Engagement: 

While on Wight he was approached by envoys from Scotland. Offered the Engagement which he accepted while rejecting Parliament's Four Bills. In return for military assistance from the Scots, CI agreed to establish Pres church for three years. 

Vote of No Addresses: 

48, Commons passed this stated that no more negotiations would be held. 

Scots entered England in 48, brief 2nd CW triggered. Scots easily defeated at the Battle of Preston.

OC fighting in war and pro-Royalist riots increasing. Ireton and other officers held a prayer meething at Windsor castle, they decided that CI 'man of blood' should be held to account.

Ireton petitioned for a trial several times. P attempted on more round of negotiation at Newpoet. Old tactics of deception and delay. 

In 1648 few believed there should be a trial. A regement held by Pride surrounded the Commons and exluded 186 MPs who supported negotiations and 45 were arrested. Left a 'Rump' House of 240. 

With OC in agreement with Ireton, Commons issued an ordinance creating a special court to hold the trial in Jan 1649. Lords rejected this. Commons declared it had sole authority to pass laws. They passed an Act to set up a High Court of Justice and CI's trial took place 20-27 Jan. 135 commissioners appointed and 68 heard the case. CI refused to recognise its authoirty and was found guilty of treason. Beheaded outisde the Banqueting House at Whitehall on January 30th.