Charles I

Real World Example

Charles I was the King of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1625 to 1649, known for his belief in the divine right of kings, which meant he thought he had absolute power given by God. He often clashed with Parliament over money and power, leading to the English Civil War. His execution in 1649 was a pivotal moment, as it challenged the idea of absolute monarchy and showed that a king could be held accountable by the people. Today, his legacy influences modern democratic values, where government leaders are expected to work with governing bodies and respect citizens' rights. For example, in democracies like the United States, checks and balances are crucial, ensuring that no single leader has complete control, a principle strengthened by historical figures like Charles I.