The Irish Rebellion

• October 1641 Irish Rebellion broke out (Took until November for Parliament to hear – Charles in Scotland)
• it was a result of Wentworth’s recall to England – caused power vacuum
• It was a reaction to Charles’ failure to honour the Graces and end plantations and inspired by the Scots worried about plans of Long Parliament for Ireland
• Wanted to achieve a constitutional reform which would give element of independence and sympathy for Catholics and initially aims were moderate. But began to be an act of avenge
• Leader Sir Phelim O’Neill claimed to be acting in King’s name( Later warrant proved forgery but damage done – Charles associated with Rebellion)
• Rebels attempted to take Dublin castle and there were demands for Earl of Ormonde should be put in charge of Ireland
• Captured key towns in Ulster whilst Attacking Ulster protestants. Estimate of death toll = 3 000-12 000 in winter 1641-2
• However Contemporary sources estimated 400 000 were killed with great brutality
• Pym issued Additional Instruction November 1641 – Commons would raise army if King agreed to appoint councillors chosen by Parliament – accepted 151-110 by Commons
• The Irish Rebellion increased the tension between King and Parliament
• Raised Parliamentary fears of Catholic Uprising in England instigated by Charles ( Build on early fear of Wentworth bringing Irish army to quell Covenanters and English)
• Fears not allayed by Charles’ handling of situation – In Scotland associated with warrant didn’t appoint Essex to go and quash it
• Raised the question of who show have control of the English army becoming a catalyst in making Pym and others more radical
• Led to Militia Bill in which royal prerogative was to be restrained
• Militia Bill important as it made MP’s take sides