Fought on 14 June 1645, the Battle of Naseby was one of the most significant engagements of the First English Civil War between King Charles I and Parliament. The confrontation proved a decisive victory for the Parliamentarians and marked the beginning of the end for the Royalists in the war. Here are 10 facts about the battle.
1. It was one of the first major battles fought by the New Model Army
In January 1645, two-and-a-half years into the First English Civil War, pro-parliament forces had claimed several victories but were struggling to seal an overall victory. In response to this dilemma, Parliamentarian Oliver Cromwell proposed the formation of a new, conscripted army that would be paid for by taxation and receive formal training.
This force, which became known as the New Model Army, were dressed in red uniforms, marking the first time that the famous “redcoat” was seen on the battlefield.
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