The intensification of radicalism: popular radicalism in London; religious…

The idea

The breakdown of traditional authority during the Civil War facilitated a surge in radical ideas. In London, popular radicalism flourished due to economic hardship and the collapse of censorship, giving rise to groups like the Levellers who demanded broader political franchise. Simultaneously, the New Model Army became a hotbed for religious radicalism. Independent preachers and soldiers debated theology and politics freely, viewing their military victories as divine providence. This intensification was heavily fuelled by an explosion of pamphlets and propaganda. The printing press allowed figures like John Lilburne to disseminate radical tracts rapidly, mobilising public opinion and challenging both Royalist and conservative Parliamentary establishments.

What earns the marks

• Explain the socio-economic conditions in London that fostered popular radicalism, such as taxation and trade disruption.
• Analyse the role of the New Model Army as a vehicle for religious radicalism, focusing on the influence of Independent chaplains and the concept of providence.
• Evaluate the impact of the collapse of censorship in 1641 on the proliferation of pamphlets and newsbooks.
• Assess how propaganda was used by radical figures like John Lilburne to articulate Leveller demands and mobilise support.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Assuming the New Model Army was entirely radical from its inception.

  Put it right: In reality, radicalism intensified gradually, peaking after 1645.

• Confusing religious radicalism with political radicalism.

  Put it right: While they often overlapped, groups like the Fifth Monarchists were primarily religious, whereas Levellers had distinct political aims.

• Overstating the reach of pamphlets.

  Put it right by noting that while influential in London and the Army, literacy rates limited their direct impact in rural areas.

Exam tips

• Use specific examples of pamphlets, such as Lilburne's 'England's Birth-Right Justified', to demonstrate the nature of radical propaganda.
• Link the growth of radicalism in the New Model Army directly to their military successes, which soldiers interpreted as God's blessing on their cause.
• Contrast the radicalism of London and the Army with the growing conservatism of the Presbyterian faction in Parliament to highlight emerging divisions.