How did the policy of "Thorough" under Charles I impact governance?

The policy of "Thorough" under Charles I centralised power, increased royal control, and led to a period of personal rule.

The policy of "Thorough" was a system of governance introduced by Charles I and his chief minister, William Laud, in the 1630s. It aimed to centralise power in the monarchy and increase royal control over the church, the judiciary, and local government. This policy had a significant impact on governance, leading to a period of personal rule by Charles I, known as the Eleven Years' Tyranny.

The policy of "Thorough" was characterised by a series of reforms aimed at strengthening the power of the monarchy. Charles I and Laud sought to reduce the influence of Parliament and other institutions that could challenge royal authority. They implemented measures to control the judiciary, including the use of the Star Chamber, a court that was under the direct control of the king. This allowed Charles to bypass the traditional legal system and enforce his policies more effectively.

In addition to controlling the judiciary, the policy of "Thorough" also sought to increase royal control over the church. Laud, who was Archbishop of Canterbury, implemented a series of religious reforms that were seen as an attempt to move the Church of England closer to Catholicism. These reforms were deeply unpopular and led to widespread opposition, particularly from Puritans.

The policy of "Thorough" also had a significant impact on local government. Charles I and Laud sought to centralise power by reducing the influence of local elites. They implemented measures to control local officials and increase royal control over taxation. This led to increased resentment and opposition from local communities, who saw these measures as an infringement on their traditional rights and privileges.

In conclusion, the policy of "Thorough" under Charles I had a profound impact on governance. It led to a period of personal rule, increased royal control over the church, the judiciary, and local government, and resulted in widespread opposition. This policy was a key factor in the political and religious tensions that led to the English Civil War.