The English Civil Wars

1640-1660

By: Blair Worden

Narrated by: Leighton Pugh

A brilliant appraisal of the Civil War and its long-term consequences by an acclaimed historian.

The political upheaval of the mid-17th century has no parallel in English history. Other events have changed the occupancy and the powers of the throne, but the conflict of 1640-60 was more dramatic: The monarchy and the House of Lords were abolished, to be replaced by a republic and military rule.

In this wonderfully listenable account, Blair Worden explores the events of this period and their origins—the war between King and Parliament, the execution of Charles I, Cromwell's rule, and the Restoration—while aiming to reveal something more elusive: the motivations of contemporaries on both sides and the concerns of later generations.

©2009 Blair Worden (P)2022 Tantor

Great primer

This is a great introduction to the English civil wars. The author also includes good perspective on the faith based motivations.

Still relevant to 21st century controversies.

I can’t help but to see the arguments and conflicts of 17th century Britain still being played out in the retrograde political, religious and societal controversies in America today.

Whistle stop tour of the English civil war

I enjoyed reading this book. At a little over 5 hours the book wasn’t going to get into a lot of in depth detail. However, the book covers the arc of the civil war, covers the major players and events. It left me wanting to read more about some aspects of the conflict.

Definitely recommended.

Beginner’s Overview

What you need if you know nothing of the English Civil Wars. Too simple if you have any background at all

For the Bedtime Listener: Alone or Alone Together

After 5 listens, I think I have heard the entire book. The performer is so amazing that I have been mesmerized by his voice and fall asleep, when alone in bed, within 30 minutes.

This book is also good to listen to when sharing a bed, especially if one has anxiety about sharing a bed, or you have a fairly new partner. The content is deep enough to keep the listener engaged while we focus on not snoring, holding in farts, and managing night flashes.