c1500–c1700: Warfare and English society in the early modern period (Edexcel GCSE History): Revision Notes

The experience of war in early modern England (c1500-1700)

During the early modern period, England experienced significant changes in how wars were fought and how they affected ordinary people. The period saw both continuity with mediaeval traditions and revolutionary developments, particularly with the creation of the New Model Army during the Civil Wars.

Military recruitment: from local levies to professional armies

Traditional recruitment methods (until 1645)

England's military system remained largely unchanged from mediaeval times until the mid-17th century. The foundation was the Statute of Winchester, which required all men between 16 and 60 years old to serve in their local militia when called upon. This system relied on pressing men into service - essentially forcing them to join the army whether they wanted to or not.

Local communities bore the responsibility for military preparation. Men had to provide their own weapons and equipment, while general musters (gatherings for inspection and basic training) took place every few years. The king appointed Lords Lieutenant to oversee each county's militia, creating a network of local military commanders across the realm.

In 1573, this system was strengthened with the establishment of Trained Bands. These units drew from the existing local militia but met monthly for more regular training under professional soldiers called Muster Masters. However, by the 1590s, these professional trainers were increasingly replaced by local gentlemen, who often resented taking orders from men they considered their social inferiors.

Revolutionary change: the New Model Army (1645)

The English Civil War brought about the most significant military reform of the period. In 1645, Parliament created the New Model Army - a national volunteer force that transformed English military organisation forever.

This new army introduced regular pay, which allowed successful soldiers to earn promotions based on merit rather than social status. The force consisted of three main components:

Cavalry units numbered 6,600 men drawn from existing forces, plus 1,000 dragoons (mounted infantry). These well-trained and disciplined troops received 24 pence per day but had to cover their own living expenses. Their effectiveness proved crucial in battle, as they maintained formation during charges and could regroup to complete attacks.

Infantry forces totaled 14,400 men, with half recruited from existing units and half pressed into service. These soldiers earned 8 pence daily - the same wage as a common labourer. Despite high desertion rates in 1645 that required pressing an additional 14,500 men, the army maintained its fighting strength.

The New Model Army also introduced the famous red coat uniform that would later become synonymous with British forces. Previously, each regiment wore their colonel's chosen colours, causing confusion during battles and making desertion easier. The standardised red coats improved battlefield recognition and unit cohesion.

Military training developments

Warfare in this period demanded new levels of discipline and coordination. The introduction of muskets and improved tactics required hundreds of soldiers to operate as a single unit while under enemy fire. Early muskets were complex weapons that took considerable skill to load and fire effectively.

Musketeers received extensive training to fight in organised rows and ranks, learning to coordinate their movements with pikemen who provided protection while the muskets were being reloaded. This integration of different weapon types marked a significant advance in military effectiveness.

Impact of warfare on civilian populations

The wars of this period affected ordinary people in unprecedented ways, with the Civil Wars bringing particular hardship to communities across England.

Before the Civil Wars

Military activities created significant but relatively localised disruption. The government regularly requisitioned merchant ships for naval operations, using them to transport troops and supplies. Similarly, horses and other essential supplies were commandeered from businesses, causing shortages and economic disruption.

Rising taxes combined with reduced trade opportunities meant that civilians faced the double burden of paying more to the state while earning less from their normal activities. Prices increased as goods became scarcer, further squeezing household budgets.

Physical damage to civilian property remained largely confined to the Scottish borders and coastal areas where military campaigns actually took place. Most of England's population experienced war primarily through its economic effects rather than direct violence.

During the Civil Wars

The Civil Wars brought warfare directly into communities across England, creating widespread suffering and disruption. Military requisitioning continued and expanded, while soldiers on both sides frequently resorted to plunder - stealing from civilians to make up for irregular pay and insufficient supplies.

The practice of free quarter became common, where armies forced local communities to provide food and accommodation for troops, often leaving only an IOU as payment. Both Parliamentary and Royalist forces imposed heavy taxation on areas under their control to fund their military campaigns.

Agricultural areas suffered severe damage as armies moved across the countryside, destroying crops and disrupting farming. However, sieges proved even more destructive to civilian life. At least 55,000 people lost their homes during the Civil Wars, while many castles and fortified buildings were partially or completely destroyed to prevent their future military use.

Timeline of key developments

• 1573: Establishment of Trained Bands for regular militia training
• 1580s: Professionalisation of Muster Masters
• 1590s: Replacement of professional Muster Masters with local gentlemen
• 1645: Parliament creates the New Model Army with regular pay and standardised uniforms
• 1645: High desertion rates require pressing of 14,500 additional men
• Post-Civil Wars: Volunteer army becomes accepted part of English society