Oxford Parliament (1644) facts for kids
The Oxford Parliament was a special meeting of Parliament called by Charles I of England. It met for the first time on 22 January 1644 and ended on 10 March 1645. King Charles I wanted this Parliament to help him raise money and support for his side during the First English Civil War. His supporters were known as the Royalists.
Contents
Why the Oxford Parliament Was Called
King Charles I was advised by Edward Hyde and others not to get rid of the Long Parliament. This was because a law from 1641 said that Parliament could not be closed without its own agreement. So, instead of ending the Long Parliament, King Charles asked all its members to come to a new meeting. This meeting was held at Christ Church Hall in Oxford.
Who Attended the Oxford Parliament?
Many members answered the King's call. Eighty-two members of the House of Lords came, which was most of them. About 175 members from the House of Commons also attended. This was about one-third of the House of Commons. Sir Sampson Eure was chosen to be the Speaker for this Parliament.
Meetings and Challenges
The Oxford Parliament met several times during the First English Civil War. King Charles I hoped it would help him get more money for the war. However, some members left and went back to the Long Parliament in Westminster. They did not like the King's alliance with Irish Catholics. Other members strongly argued for a peaceful agreement with the Long Parliament.
Key Dates of the Sessions
The first session of the Oxford Parliament lasted from 22 January 1644 until 16 April 1644. The second session took place from 8 October 1644 until 10 March 1645.
What Happened to the Records?
Sadly, we don't know much about what happened during these meetings. All the records of the Oxford Parliament were burned. This happened just before Oxford was taken over by the Parliament's army in 1646.
See also
