Case Study - The Battle of Naseby, 1645

Question 1

When was the Battle of Naseby?

Answer 1

1645

Question 2

Give a brief description of the Battle of Naseby.

Answer 2

• New Model Army (managed by Fairfax + Cromwell - Parliamentarian) vs Royalist Army.
• Turning point in the English Civil Wars.

Question 3

How did Fairfax (Parliamentarians) use the battleground effectively?

Answer 3

• Large, open expanse of common land. Ideal for cavalry.
• Western flank protected by a hedgerow, his eastern flank by ground that was hard to cross.
• Kept men behind ridge, out of sight of the enemy, to improve morale.
• Their high position gave a tactical advantage as Prince Rupert (Royalists) were unwilling to engage in musket and artillery fire head on.

Question 4

Describe the series of events that occurred during the Battle of Naseby.

Answer 4

1. NMA advance over the ridge to engage the Royalists as they climb up the slope.
2. Prince Rupert’s Royalist cavalry drive off their foes, but lose discipline and raid baggage trains for plunder.
3. NMA infantry hold centre, losing ground, as their frontline breaks.
4. NMA cavalry drive off their foes, but Cromwell keeps them under control.
5. Cromwell’s cavalry attack the flanks and rear of Royalist infantry, while Fairfax counterattacks at the centre. Royalists break.

Question 5

Describe how Fairfax and Cromwell were useful generals.

Answer 5

• Fairfax : inspirational and fought alongside his men. Led infantry to counterattack at the centre, gaining a vital advantage.
• Cromwell : recruited and trained the best cavalry in the war.

Question 6

Describe how King Charles and Prince Rupert showed bad leadership.

Answer 6

• Underestimated the enemy, believing they could win though outnumbered.
• They wanted a speedy victory before NMA could join the Scots; did not wait for reinforcements.
• Prince Rupert wasted advantage on the West; lacked control of his cavalry.