The Rise of the New Model Army: February–December 1647

The structural tensions inherent in the Stuart multiple monarchy — a contributory factor in the outbreak of the wars — posed a major obstacle to the attainment of a well-grounded peace. Although Charles could and did appeal to his duty to defend the interests of all his peoples, in practice this was impossible given their incompatible political and religious objectives. After his defeat in the English Civil War, he effectively required the backing of two of his kingdoms in order to mend his fractured realm — or of one, if that kingdom was England. The summer of 1646, when he was presented with the Newcastle Propositions, was his best chance of making peace with his British kingdoms; the summer of 1647 would be his best opportunity to reach a settlement in England. In both instances he preferred to sow division among his subjects and hold out for better terms.