Rump Parliament facts for kids
The Rump Parliament was the name given to a special part of the Parliament of England that met from 1648 to 1653. It was formed after a big event called Pride's Purge on December 6, 1648. During this event, many members of Parliament were removed because they did not agree with the plan to put King Charles I of England on trial for very serious charges.
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What Was the Rump Parliament?
The Rump Parliament was a smaller group of members from the original Long Parliament. These members were the ones who supported the idea of trying King Charles I. They believed the King had acted against the people and the laws of England. The word "rump" means the leftover part, like the end of something. So, the Rump Parliament was what was left of the Parliament after many members were forced out.
How Did the Rump Parliament Start?
Before the Rump Parliament, England was in the middle of a big fight called the English Civil War. This war was between King Charles I and the Parliament. After years of fighting, the Parliament's army, led by Oliver Cromwell, won. But there was still a big disagreement about what to do with the King.
Why Were Members Removed?
Many members of Parliament wanted to make a deal with the King. They hoped to find a way for him to return to power, but with less control. However, the army and some strong members of Parliament believed the King could not be trusted. They thought he needed to be punished for starting the war. So, on December 6, 1648, soldiers led by Colonel Thomas Pride stopped members of Parliament from entering the building. Only those who supported the army's view were allowed in. This event is known as Pride's Purge.
What Did the Rump Parliament Do?
With only the remaining members, the Rump Parliament took some very important and unusual steps. They decided that the King should be put on trial. This was a huge decision because kings were usually seen as being above the law.
The Trial of King Charles I
The Rump Parliament set up a special court to try King Charles I. He was accused of being a "tyrant, traitor, and murderer." The King did not believe the court had the right to judge him. After the trial, King Charles I was found guilty and sentenced to death. He was executed on January 30, 1649. This was a shocking event in English history.
After the King's death, the Rump Parliament declared that England would no longer have a king or a House of Lords (another part of Parliament). Instead, England became a republic, which means it was ruled by the Parliament and a council, not a monarch. This new government was called the Commonwealth of England.
How Did the Rump Parliament End?
The Rump Parliament ruled England for several years. However, it faced many challenges. People started to get tired of the constant changes and disagreements. The army, especially its leader Oliver Cromwell, also became unhappy with the Rump Parliament. They felt it was not doing enough to make England stable and fair.
Cromwell's Role in Ending Parliament
On April 20, 1653, Oliver Cromwell marched into the Parliament building with his soldiers. He was very angry with the members and accused them of being corrupt and selfish. Cromwell famously told them, "You have sat too long for any good you have been doing lately... Depart, I say; and let us have done with you. In the name of God, go!" He then ordered his soldiers to clear the building, and the Rump Parliament was officially ended.
After the Rump Parliament was dissolved, Oliver Cromwell became the most powerful person in England. He later became the Lord Protector, ruling England almost like a king, but without the title.
Important Facts About the Rump Parliament
- It was formed after Pride's Purge in December 1648.
- It was responsible for the trial and execution of King Charles I.
- It declared England a republic (the Commonwealth).
- It was ended by Oliver Cromwell in April 1653.
See also
In Spanish: Parlamento Rabadilla para niños
References
- Chambers' Book of Days: April 20th (This link has a censored version of Cromwell's 1653 speech ending the Parliament.)
