Charles wasn't meant to be king, and it shows in his behavior throughout his troublesome reign. His older brother Henry, groomed for the kingship, died of typhoid at the age of 18.
Charles was a seriously-flawed man who was prone to doubt (so that he was slow to act) and he, like his father James I, believed in the divine right of kings to rule. And since kings are chosen by God, then it followed that whatever the king chose to do was right. Charles wasn't satisfied just ruling his country as he chose, he decided to alter the religions of the people he controlled. Since most folks look upon their own religion as sacrosanct, they would look upon any ruler's interference as serious business.
Another problem Charles had was his inability to compromise. Since he thought his rule came from God, he saw no need to compromise. However, that attitude led to the English Civil Wars and then the removal of his head. This explanation of Charles I and his leadership was clear and succinct.Â
Charles was a seriously-flawed man who was prone to doubt (so that he was slow to act) and he, like his father James I, believed in the divine right of kings to rule. And since kings are chosen by God, then it followed that whatever the king chose to do was right. Charles wasn't satisfied just ruling his country as he chose, he decided to alter the religions of the people he controlled. Since most folks look upon their own religion as sacrosanct, they would look upon any ruler's interference as serious business.
Another problem Charles had was his inability to compromise. Since he thought his rule came from God, he saw no need to compromise. However, that attitude led to the English Civil Wars and then the removal of his head. This explanation of Charles I and his leadership was clear and succinct.Â
