Wellington Declaration facts for kids
The Wellington Declaration was an important statement made by King Charles I at the beginning of the English Civil War. It was like a public promise or a set of rules he said he would follow.
Contents
What Was the Wellington Declaration?
The Wellington Declaration was a special message from King Charles I to his army. He made this declaration on September 19, 1642. This was just before the first big battle of the English Civil War.
Where Did King Charles Make This Promise?
King Charles I gathered his troops near a small but important town called Wellington in Shropshire, England. He raised his royal flag there to show his power. The next day, he spoke to his soldiers.
What Did the King Promise?
In his speech, King Charles I made three main promises. He said he would protect:
- The Protestant Religion
- The Laws of England
- The Liberty of Parliament
These promises were very important because they were about the main reasons for the war. The King wanted to show his people what he stood for.
Why Was This Declaration So Important?
The Wellington Declaration was seen as a very significant statement. It was so important that it was even put on money!
How Was the Declaration Shown on Coins?
The Royal Mint, which makes coins for England, stamped parts of the declaration on silver coins.
- On 10-shilling silver coins, they put: RELIG:PROT:LEG:ANG:LIBER:PAR
- On half-crown (2 shillings and 6 pence) silver coins, they put: REL.PRO.LEG.ANG.LIB.PAR
These letters are short forms of the Latin words: "RELIGIO PROTESTANTIUM, LEGES ANGLIAE, LIBERTAS PARLIAMENTI". This means "The Protestant Religion, the Laws of England, the Liberty of Parliament." Putting these words on coins showed how serious and public the King's promises were.
