During the Civil Wars there were attempts to negotiate a peace. One of these attempts was known as the Treaty of Uxbridge 1645. This treaty involved leading Parliamentarians, Royalists and Scots meeting at the house of Sir John Bennet in Uxbridge, now known as the ‘Crown and Treaty’ public house.
These negotiations were handicapped by the fact that both sides were adamant that they were winning the war. The Royalists had succeeded at the battles of Lostwithiel and the Second Battle of Newbury, giving the impression that they were on the verge of victory.
But Parliament had also succeeded at Marston Moor and had just reorganised their military, forming the New Model Army. As a result neither side were willing to compromise much during the negotiations.
Both sides brought very bold ideas to the table. Parliament demanded that only they could have the right to declare war and make peace with foreign powers and the state religion was to be brought closer in line with Scottish Presbyterianism.
In addition, the King had to swear an oath and sign the Solemn League and Covenant and Parliament would have control over the King’s children’s education and decision on marriage.
The Royalists responded with their own demands insisting that the Common Prayer Book be safeguarded from any acts of violence; the constitution of 1641 remains and that a bill be introduced for the easing of restrictions to all Christian sects.
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