Charles I

King of England and Scotland (r.1625-49). His political ineptness coupled with his obstinate belief in the divine right of kings led him into a series of confrontations with Parliament, culminating in 1642 in civil war. Defeated by Parliament and made prisoner, he attempted to retrieve his position by political maneuvering that led to renewed fighting. For this he was brought to trial and executed on 30 January 1649.