Long term causes of the Civil War?

[DaveJS]

What are the long term causes of the 1642 English Civil War? I know that the problems started with James I and that they roughly have to do with religion, parliament, and money, but what caused them exactly? For instance, what made James think he was appointed by God to be king?

[Geoffers]

what made James think he was appointed by God to be king?This was a long held belief amongst royalty, it simplest terms it justified them holding supreme power within their realm. Parliament questioned this right and the general breakdown which ensued over years of distrust between the two power bases (Parliament and monarchy) led to civil war. The problem over religion dated back to the break with the catholic church in the 16th century.

A full discussion on your questions has led to many large books being written which discuss the causes and led up to war. You might try "This War without an Enemy' by Richard Ollard as a good start.

Geoffers