The Parliament of England passes the Ordinance of Militia

Historical Significance and Background

On December 18, 1642, amidst tensions that led to the English Civil War, the English Parliament passed the Ordinance of Militia. This decision ensured that local county militias would be loyal to Parliament, effectively giving control of the country's armed forces to the Parliament. This further deepened the divide between Parliament and King Charles I.

Development of the Event

Important Stages

The acceptance of the Ordinance of Militia was a crucial turning point in the English Civil War. Here is the development of the event:

1. Strengthening of Parliament: Parliament had begun to challenge King Charles and strengthen its power. In previous years, Parliament had shown a tendency to oppose the King, and gaining control of the militias was a step towards giving Parliament more military power.

2. Acceptance of the Ordinance of Militia: In 1642, Parliament passed the Ordinance of Militia. This decision allowed for the organization, equipping, and control of local county militias. It gave Parliament the authority to balance and control the King's military power.

3. Triggering of the Civil War: The acceptance of the Ordinance of Militia was a step that undermined King Charles' trust in Parliament. The King began to refuse to recognize Parliament as a legitimate authority, leading to the start of the English Civil War.

Consequences and Effects

The acceptance of the Ordinance of Militia had various consequences and effects:

Short-term effects:

• Commencement of the Civil War: The acceptance of the Ordinance of Militia was a triggering factor for the English Civil War. The conflict between Parliament and the King intensified, and the country was plunged into a long-lasting civil war.
• Empowerment of Parliament: The Ordinance of Militia provided Parliament with military power, placing them in a stronger position against the King.

Long-term effects:

• Weakening of the Monarchy: The English Civil War weakened the power of the monarchy and strengthened the sovereignty of Parliament. This led to permanent changes in the English political system.
• Constitutional debates: The Civil War sparked increased constitutional debates in England and the search for a new order in terms of the monarchy's authority.

Historical Significance and Relevance to the Present

The acceptance of the Ordinance of Militia is a significant turning point in English history and still has repercussions today:

Relevance to the modern world:

• Strengthening of parliamentary democracy: The Ordinance of Militia contributed to the strengthening of parliamentary democracy and added foundational elements to the political system of the United Kingdom.
• Subordination of military control to civilian authority: This event emphasized the importance of military power being subject to civilian authority, a principle that is still valid today.

Relevance to the present day:

• Role of Parliament: The Ordinance of Militia highlighted the power and role of Parliament, which continues to play a significant role in British politics today.
• Constitutional debates: The English Civil War triggered debates on the constitution, and discussions on constitutional reforms still continue to this day.

Lessons learned:

• Balance of power: The Ordinance of Militia emphasized the importance of the balance of power and is still considered a lesson in international relations and politics today.
• Subordination of military control to civilian oversight: This event demonstrated the necessity and importance of military control being subject to civilian authority.