Evaluate the impact of the Treaty of Ripon in the English Civil War.

The Treaty of Ripon significantly escalated the English Civil War by financially straining the English government and increasing political tensions.

The Treaty of Ripon, signed on 28 October 1640, ended the Second Bishops' War between Scotland and England. However, its impact on the English Civil War, which broke out two years later, was significant. The treaty placed a considerable financial burden on the English government, which was already struggling with economic issues. This financial strain played a crucial role in escalating the conflict between King Charles I and Parliament, leading to the outbreak of the Civil War.

Under the terms of the Treaty of Ripon, the English government agreed to pay the Scottish forces £850 per day until a final settlement was reached. This was a substantial sum, especially considering the economic difficulties England was already facing. The need to raise this money led to increased tensions between the King and Parliament. Charles I was forced to call the Long Parliament in November 1640 to raise the necessary funds, which gave Parliament the opportunity to voice their grievances and demand political reforms.

The financial strain caused by the Treaty of Ripon also exacerbated existing social and political tensions. The burden of taxation fell heavily on the lower classes, leading to widespread discontent. This discontent was exploited by various factions within Parliament, who used it to rally support against the King. The financial crisis also weakened the King's authority and bargaining power, making it more difficult for him to resist the demands of Parliament.

Furthermore, the Treaty of Ripon had a significant psychological impact. The fact that England had been forced to make such a humiliating agreement with Scotland undermined the prestige of the monarchy and further emboldened Parliament. The treaty was seen by many as a sign of the King's weakness and incompetence, which further fuelled the conflict between the King and Parliament.

In conclusion, the Treaty of Ripon had a significant impact on the English Civil War. The financial strain it placed on the English government escalated the conflict between King Charles I and Parliament, leading to the outbreak of the Civil War. The treaty also exacerbated social and political tensions, undermined the prestige of the monarchy, and emboldened Parliament. Therefore, while the Treaty of Ripon ended the Second Bishops' War, it also played a crucial role in sparking the English Civil War.