Essay Question:

'To what extent were the Cavaliers and Roundheads different in their aims and support during the English Civil War?'

Introduction Thesis: Outline your overall argument about the main differences and similarities between the two sides, focusing on their aims and support bases.

Point 1: Compare the support bases of Cavaliers and Roundheads, including their motivations.

Evidence: Cavaliers mainly drew support from aristocrats, landowners, and those loyal to the king. Roundheads gained support from Puritans, towns, and those opposed to royal absolutism.

Point 2: Analyse the political and religious goals of both sides.

Evidence: Cavaliers aimed to uphold the divine right of kings and traditional hierarchy. Roundheads sought to limit royal power, promote parliamentary sovereignty, and support Puritan religious reforms.

Counter-Argument: Some historians argue that the differences between Cavaliers and Roundheads were not as significant as their shared goal of restoring order.

Question: Outline a counter-argument to the idea that Cavaliers and Roundheads had completely different aims. (4 marks)