The Protestation Oath

• It was issued on 6th May 1641 (At same time as the Army Plot, the increased efforts against Stafford and Earl of Bedford’s death)
• Charles gave his assent as he was under pressure
• Originally it was intended for official holders but was extended to all adult males. Thus it was sent to every parish in 1642
• It played a crucial role in bringing the debate between King and Parliament to the people as everyone in the country now had access to the key issues and could voice their opinion
• It was an affirmation of Parliament’s version of Protestantism not Charles’ Laudianism but it did lead to vandalism and violence as parishioners broke down altar rails
• Religion more than anything else seemed to determine one’s political beliefs
• The more a person favoured religious reform and supported a Puritan outlook, the more determined they were to restrain Charles’ behaviour
• The more a person favoured religious stability and defended the Elizabethan Church of England, the more likely they were to defend the position of monarchy and Charles behaviour
• Religious belief and political views went hand in hand