The ousting and execution of King Charles I is documented in BBC4's new three-part documentary Charles I: Downfall of a King
Historian Lisa Hilton presents a detailed study of one of the most tumultuous periods of British history – the overthrow and execution of King Charles I in 1649 – in BBC4's Charles I: Downfall of a King.
Stripped across the week, this first episode focuses on how John Pym, the leader of the House of Commons, began the parliamentary revolt that led to the king’s God-given authority being questioned.
Puritan Pym was sick of Charles’ lavish and flamboyant lifestyle and was worried about the influence of his Catholic French wife – Henrietta Maria.
In November 1641 Pym wrote The Grand Remonstrance, a document listing the King’s failings that would ultimately lead to the king losing control of parliament – and his head – and sow the seeds of our modern democracy.
TV Times rating: ***
