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Rupert PfaltskiyLeader of the anti-parliamentary forces during the English Civil War.
Date of Birth: 17.12.1619
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Rupert of the Rhine: A Royalist Leader
- Early Life
- Thirty Years' War
- English Civil War
- Exile and Return
- Exploration
- Later Years
Rupert of the Rhine: A Royalist Leader
Rupert of the Rhine, born as Ruprecht von der Pfalz in Prague in 1619, was a key figure in the English Civil War as a leader of the Royalists. He was the son of Frederick V, Elector Palatine and King of Bohemia, and Elizabeth Stuart, daughter of James VI of Scotland and I of England.
Early Life
Rupert's birth in Prague coincided with his father's brief reign as King of Bohemia, earning his parents the nickname "the Winter King and Queen." Forced out of Bohemia in 1620, the family moved to the Netherlands, where Rupert gained military experience fighting for the Dutch rebels against Spain.
Thirty Years' War
During the Thirty Years' War, Rupert fought alongside the Protestant forces but was captured by the Austrians in 1638. He was released on his word of honor not to fight against the Holy Roman Empire.
English Civil War
In 1642, Rupert was appointed commander of the Royalist cavalry in the English Civil War, becoming known in England as "Prince Rupert." He played a prominent role in the Royalist victories, capturing Bristol in 1643 and earning the title of Duke of Cumberland from Charles I in 1644.
Exile and Return
After the fall of Oxford in 1646, Rupert went into exile. With the Restoration in 1660, he returned to England and served as a naval commander in the wars against the Dutch.
Exploration
Rupert played a significant role in the colonization of Canada as a founder of the Hudson's Bay Company. The Rupert's Land region, Rupert River, and the town of Rupert House bear his name.
Later Years
Rupert died in England in 1682. According to legend, his beloved pet, a large poodle, was believed to be his familiar and was killed by a silver bullet.
