What If: The Civil War

What if: The English Civil War, consisting of three distinct conflicts took place between the Royalist (Cavalier's) and Parliamentarians (Roundheads). The conflict was brought about, partly due to King Charles I wanting to unite England, Ireland and Scotland in to one Kingdom, which Parliament saw as a threat. Problems and differences in opinion between various issues gradually built up until Civil War broke. This conflict saw the creation of the Common Wealth of England followed by the appointment of Oliver Cromwell as the Lord Protector.

What If: Civil War never took happened?

Charles I was never executed and managed to unite England, Ireland and Scotland to a single Kingdom. This then lead to a greater prosperity for the Kingdom creating goods and a valuable trade network. The military power was strengthened due to the three countries uniting, removing any possible threats from other countries. The people of England, Parliament especially, would have a single allegiance and devotion to their monarch and no split loyalties. Perhaps most notably, parliament and the government of the country would have remained under the King's, or Queen's, control. I'll let you decide if that is a good or bad thing.