"Historians have argued about the causes of the English Civil War for over three centuries and recent discussions has focused on the question of whether short-term or long-term changes could account for the war. The author discusses the pitfalls of arguments about causation; analyses the events which preceded the war; provides a detailed examination of the areas of possible long-term conflict; and assesses the different explanations offered in the light of recent scholarship." "The Causes of the English Civil War is an ideal introductory text for students of this period, bringing the latest arguments to bear on this popular subject of study."--Jacket.