Cavaliers Facts for Kids

The Cavaliers were a special nickname for people who supported King Charles I of England during a big fight called the English Civil War. They were fighting against another group known as the Roundheads, who supported Parliament. At first, the name "Cavalier" was mostly used for the king's horse soldiers, called cavalry. The words "Cavalier" and "cavalry" sound alike because they came from the same original word.

Who Were the Cavaliers?
- Why Were They Called Cavaliers?
- The English Civil War Explained
  - King Charles I and Parliament
  - Cavaliers vs. Roundheads
What Did Cavaliers Look Like?
Images for kids
See also

Who Were the Cavaliers?

The Cavaliers were the loyal supporters of King Charles I during the English Civil War, which happened in the mid-1600s. They believed the king should have strong power and rule the country. Many Cavaliers were nobles or wealthy landowners. They were known for their loyalty to the king and their traditional way of life.

Why Were They Called Cavaliers?

The word "Cavalier" comes from the French word "chevalier," which means "knight" or "horseman." It was first used to describe the king's cavalry, who were skilled horse riders. The name also suggested a certain style and attitude. The Roundheads used the term "Cavalier" to describe their enemies, sometimes in a negative way. However, the king's supporters soon adopted the name with pride.

The English Civil War Explained

The English Civil War (1642-1651) was a major conflict in England. It was fought between those who supported King Charles I and those who supported Parliament. The main reasons for the war included disagreements over how the country should be governed and religious differences.

King Charles I and Parliament

King Charles I believed he had a "divine right" to rule, meaning his power came directly from God. Parliament, however, wanted more say in how the country was run, especially when it came to laws and taxes. These disagreements led to a breakdown in their relationship and eventually to war.

Cavaliers vs. Roundheads

The Cavaliers fought for the King. They were often seen as fashionable and aristocratic. The Roundheads, led by figures like Oliver Cromwell, supported Parliament. They were often Puritans and were known for their shorter hair and simpler clothing. The war was a long and difficult struggle, with many battles fought across England.

What Did Cavaliers Look Like?

Cavaliers were known for their distinctive style. They often wore fancy clothes, including wide-brimmed hats with feathers. Many had long, flowing hair and sometimes beards or mustaches. This look was quite different from the Roundheads, who often had shorter hair and plainer clothes. Their appearance reflected their social status and their loyalty to the king's traditional court.

Images for kids

Lord John Stuart and his Brother, Lord Bernard Stuart, c. 1638, by Sir Anthony van Dyck. Both Lord John Stewart and Lord Bernard Stewart died in the English Civil War, fighting on the Royalist side.
An engraving depicting Charles I and his adherents.
Prince Rupert of the Rhine, often considered to be an archetypal Cavalier.
Cavaliers after the Battle of Naseby, 1645
Triple Unite gold coin of 1644: the Latin legend translates as "The religion of the Protestants, the laws of England and the liberty of Parliament. Let God arise and His enemies be scattered."
Charles I in Three Positions, the triple portrait of Charles I by Anthony van Dyck