What was the catalyst for the English Civil War in the 17th century?

The primary catalyst for the English Civil War in the 17th century was the conflict between King Charles I and Parliament. This confrontation arose from Charles's belief in the divine right of kings, which led him to govern without Parliament for an extended period and impose taxes unilaterally. His actions alienated both Parliament and significant portions of the population who felt that their rights and privileges were being undermined. The situation escalated when Charles attempted to arrest MPs, leading to open hostilities between supporters of the monarchy and the parliamentary faction, culminating in the outbreak of war in 1642.

While struggles for religious reform and financial disputes over money and taxes played significant roles in the broader context of the conflict, the direct clash between the authority of the king and the political power of Parliament was the fundamental issue that sparked the war. The influence of foreign powers did have an impact on the struggle during the war, but it was primarily the domestic struggle for control between the monarchy and Parliament that ignited the conflict.