To what extent was the superiority of resources the crucial factor in Parliament's victory in the first Civil War?

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   Alex Mansfield 12/2

To what extent was the superiority of resources the crucial factor in Parliament’s victory in the first Civil War?

It has been disputed how crucial Parliament’s superiority in resources was to their eventual victory in the civil war. There are opposing views that suggest it was only the superiority in resources that allowed them to win, others think it was the creation of the new model army. Some believe it was a combination of factors.    

In comparison too other cities in England London was the most important city and site of the majority of the financial and military resources in England for Parliament. The London trained bands were the most professional in England. The Tower of London provided access to a large arsenal so the capital could equip its own troops. London was by far the biggest city in England and through its ports arrived most of the trade, it also had the largest population allowing Parliament to efficiently collect the taxes needed to fund the war and provide men for the army. The merchants and moneylenders that had suffered under Charles’s forced loans were also situated in London and many provided loans and paid customs duties to Parliament ensuring a constant flow of money. The possession of London and the south east ensured Parliament would win a protracted war.

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However Parliament’s advantage could have been lost early in the war after the battle of Edge hill in October 1642. Though out numbered Charles defeated Essex’s army and could have marched on London. Historians have disputed if he had attacked at Turnham Green at Rupert’s urging he could have occupied London and the majority of the resources, but it is equally possible that Londoners could have overwhelmed his army.  

It is important that an army is properly supplied and supported financially if it is to fight well. John Pym realised that the war could not be ...

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