1642-1646: Outline of the English Civil War

1. Both sides expected in 1642 that one early battle would be decisive. The Battle of Edgehill October, however, was a draw. 
2. The prospect of fighting a long war frightened some MP's into resuming negotiations with the King. These negotiations, known as the Oxford Treaty January 1643 did not lead to a settlement 
3. In 1643 things went very well for the King. The Royalists captured a lot of territory and several leading Parliamentarians were killed.
4. The King's successes led to a crisis of confidence in Parliament. There were demands for the resignation of the Earl of Essex, but when the King's army besieged Gloucester, Essex commanded the army that was sent to its relief. 
5. In 1644 the tide of war began to turn in Parliament's favour. The Scots joined with Parliament and the Battle of Marston Moor (July) destroyed the King's army in the north of England. 
6. During 1644 political disagreements threatened to undermine Parliament's successes. The consequences was the Self-Denying Ordinance (December) and the formation of the New Model Army in May 1645.
7. In 1645 the war turned decisively in Parliament's favour. Major victories at Naseby and Langport defeated the King's main armies and captured most of England and Wales
8. The war ended in 1646 as Parliament captured the remaining Royalists castles and strongholds, such as Newark and Oxford.