HOW DID CHARLES II ESCAPE CROMWELL’S FORCES? The tree that saved a King | History of the Royal Oak

[@HistoryCalling]

PINNED COMMENT: Which part of this story do you find the most incredible? Let me know below and remember you can also find me at: BUY MY BOOK (Find Your Irish Ancestors Online): amzn.to/3Z2ChnG Website (with 2 FREE DOWNLOADS): www.historycallingofficial.com/ Patreon: www.patreon.com/historycalling Amazon storefront: www.amazon.com/shop/historycalling Instagram: instagram.com/historycalling/

[@garycurry4600]

The whole story is incredible! Thank you for telling the tale without embellishment, as it’s pretty cool as it is.

[@Ferrie123]

I agree that the entire story is amazing and wonderful of itself, and your treatment of it is, as per usual, truly delightful. 👏🙏🙋🏼‍♂️

[@HistoryCalling]

Thanks @Ferrie123 :-)

[@HistoryCalling]

Thanks @garycurry4600 I agree, it needs no embellishment. You just know if Hollywood made it into a movie though, they'd add in a romance with Jane.

[@prarieborn6458]

It was a treat to hear the story again! I discoverd the story in the book by Charles Spencer, Princess Diana’s brother. It was exciting and so filled with details Hoever, your presenation included pictures of all the stately homes and people in the story Thank you, it eas so thoughtfulvand brought the story to life. I have seen some sketches and portrats , but I had to use my imagination for most. Another story about Caharles love story and marriage to Lucy Walter is told in the book “ The Child from the Sea”an historical novel by Elizabeth Goidge. In his early days of hiding , Charles was the child from the sea. He landed on tthe coast ofvWales @ the site of Roche Castle, and was shelterd in a fishing village by Lucy Walter, The book is the story of her life . They were married there , but it was kept secrettheir son , later became the Duke of Monmouth. Queen Henrietta Maria, had the marriage annulled . Lucy was from a good family but not royal. Itvis a besutifully written but sad love story. plz rxcuse typos. program hard to edit text.

[@LauraSomeNumber]

I had never really thought about the fact that Stone Henge would already have been a tourist attraction. That idea feels so modern.

[@HistoryCalling]

I know. It seemed strange to me too, but I guess it's been famous for 1000s of years.

[@chrisbanks6659]

I live quite near Stonehenge (not The Spinal Tap version) - and I have to tell you - historical as it is, it's quite mundane to look at.

[@carolinereynolds2032]

​@@chrisbanks6659I agree. I visited 40 years ago when you could walk amongst the stones and even then I was underwhelmed. But these days I've developed a greater appreciation when thinking about how many people over however many years have been working on it and worshipping there.

[@LauraSomeNumber]

@@chrisbanks6659 😂 honestly I would probably take about five minutes and be done, give me a city any day.

[@kevinjohnbetts]

@@HistoryCalling I think it's only with the invention of the printing press, and books like William Camden's 'Britannia', that the monument became more widely known. It's only a guess but rumours/'tall tales' must have been circulating for centuries before then but I would assume only a few thousand people knew where it was outside of the area. Still less would have the wherewithal to visit Stonehenge. Camden regarded it as an ancient Roman ruin so nothing would mark it out as special. Certainly Glastonbury would be a much greater draw as would Bath. The first English language edition of 'Britannia' was published in 1610 so maybe by 1651 word was staring to spread around the _hoi polloi_ . Sorry, that was meant to be concise. Oh well. 🙂😎

[@kathleen88863]

I think his humble behavior throughout his escape was one thing that saved him from exposure. His gratitude to all who assisted him was admirable as well. Lovely story as always. A real pleasure to listen to. Thank you!

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, I imagine that was partly his natural personality and partly a smart move. He couldn't afford to offend those people in any way after all.

[@benjamintillema3572]

The French royal family could have learned a thing or two from him. When they were fleeing from the revolution they traveled by carriage to an inn and then ordered the most expensive food available. If they had been a little more inconspicuous then they might have made it.

[@hughiepearce]

...so 'humble' that when he was restored to the throne he had Cromwell and other Parliamentary dead figures dug up hung and their corpse's trampled by horses in the street

[@rezza_lynsaii]

@@hughiepearce let him be petty, he was better than the corrupt gov

[@catherinenewman6516]

I have read that his nickname was the black boy because of his hair Snd swarthy complexion ( French mother). Many pubs of that name refer to him. Slsnd he had no legitimate children but at least 22 illegitimate bones

[@aliceingoryland]

Charles II hair would have been a hit in the 80s...1980s

[@HistoryCalling]

I know. He looks like a rockstar, doesn't he? :-)

[@aliceingoryland]

He could have been in any hair metal band

[@HistoryCalling]

Absolutely. Of course it was def. a wig, but who cares? :-)

[@chrisbanks6659]

@@HistoryCalling Very Tom Kiefer-ish. If you're not sure, Google him. Great voice, too.

[@maryellencook9528]

​@@HistoryCalling Charles II's hair would have been popular in the 1960s.

[@davidaylsworth8964]

This is a rollicking tale of adventure, intrigue and suspense. I can well imagine how the film genre would portray Charles as a swashbuckling renegade in the style of Errol Flynn. Great story!

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, it's wild that I don't think there's ever been a film about this. What are they waiting for?

[@annarae2396]

​@@HistoryCallingas the video ended I was thinking the story would make a great movie.

[@annarae2396]

​@@HistoryCallingas the video ended I was thinking the story would make a great movie.

[@charliebalch3023]

Thank you for this. It’s a real personal treat for me, I lived in Bishopswood and surrounding areas as a kid. We used to cycle down to boscobel house and white ladies and had a school day out there. So this story is very familiar to me but now I’ve heard, and will rehear it again very soon, spoken by my favourite history narrator, my day is complete. Thank you this is so good.

[@HistoryCalling]

You're welcome. It's a beautiful part of the world. I had a good time the day I was there, getting the photos and footage of Boscobel you saw here.

[@dolinaj1]

Thank you for such a riveting retelling of the breathless escape of Charles II from Cromwell’s Roundheads.

[@HistoryCalling]

My pleasure. Glad you enjoyed it :-)

[@leticiagarcia9025]

An arduous plight indeed. I liked everything about his story. Hated how treated his wife though. Thank you for the history lesson.

[@HistoryCalling]

You're welcome. Yes, I have great pity for Catherine too. He had many gifts, but being a good husband wasn't one of them.

[@Ashley-vs8nu]

Strange, since his father appeared to be a family man.

[@edithengel2284]

@@HistoryCalling He was very unkind to her in surrounding himself with mistresses, and the abundant offspring he sired, which must have made Catherine sad on several counts, but he was otherwise personally kind and affectionate toward her, and supported her when he was urged to divorce her on the grounds of her faith and her failure to produce an heir. I'm sure he respected her abilities; she was an intelligent woman who became Regent of Portugal after Charles' death.

[@theezaction]

Great story! I was actually nervous for him at every twist and turn even though we know the outcome!

[@HistoryCalling]

Thank you. I take that as a great compliment indeed as it's very hard to drum up tension when everyone knows the protagonist of the story is gonna be fine. 😁 It's why I often don't like prequel movies.

[@lyndaadams1001]

I read a novel on his escape many years ago, I think it was by Georgette Heyer but I feel reading it began my love of history.

[@2shy1151]

I'm a bit jealous. I don't remember what book led to my love of history. It most likely about the English monarchy though. I'm glad you made this comment. I'm going to think on it and try to remember!

[@gandalfolorin-kl3pj]

Bravo. I find the entire tale very enthralling. How could the English have wanted those dour Roundheads to govern them instead of a king like this one? Those many people who hid Charles in priest holes lead me to believe that Catholics were largely responsible for his escape. Great work.

[@HistoryCalling]

I don't think a lot of them did want the Roundheads. I imagine a lot of people were just fed up with Charles I and didn't realise where the whole Civil War situation was going to end up. Yes, Charles II was incredibly lucky he met so many people willing to literally risk their necks for him.

[@jamellfoster6029]

Ikr. I would suck as a Puritan. BORING!!!!!!!!!

[@freedpeeb]

Charles the Second was, by our standards, a rogue, but in my opinion, a likeable one. I agree that he didn't treat his Queen well, but compared to his ancestor, he was a saint in that category. He comes across as a real human being with a character that redeemed his flaws. He could have been so cruel and punished so many people after the Restoration, but it seemed like he truly didn't have the cruelty in him. I admire him for that. It was no easy task to bring the country back to Royalty again. He's one of the good ones, I think. I keep wondering how hard it was to hide out in that tree, having to do the necessary things we all do. Imagine the stories that would have been told if they'd caught him doing something so humiliating!

[@cornelia9778]

How exhausting! Charles was lucky to have such brave and loyal supporters. Amazing story, thank you.

[@stephencarrillo5905]

👏👏👏 I felt as if I should have a bag of popcorn handy, HC. This is so entertaining and educational with a few thrills thrown in for good measure. Charles was made of sterner stuff than I; I get stressed when my online orders don't arrive on time.😆Thanks for the adventure. I should rewatch your video on The Scottish Jewels; it's a great one. Monday is HC Day now and I have to adjust my dog walking schedule so I don't miss anything. Well done! Have a great week. 🙏🏼

[@HistoryCalling]

Thanks Stephen. Yes, he was very brave and hardy actually. People often forget that about him when they're discussing the 'Merry Monarch' part of his life, but he knew what real hardship was as well. Hope your dog doesn't mind me interfering with its walkies time :-)

[@stephencarrillo5905]

@@HistoryCalling 😆Penny and Louie are always grateful and happy-go-lucky whenever I reach for the leashes. No worries. As to your question I find it remarkable that Charles encountered so many people willing to help him, possibly putting their own lives at risk. Sometimes people surprise me in dangerous circumstances.

[@HistoryCalling]

I know what you mean. It is rather heartening actually how many good people he met, who could have sold him out for an awful lot of money, yet went to such lengths to protect him and get him back to France.

[@chrisbanks6659]

Young Stephen, how fares it?I trust all is well within the conflines of Clan Carrillo? And I agree. Mondays are less of a chore these days 🤭

[@stephencarrillo5905]

@@chrisbanks6659 All well, young man! Hope you're feeling better.

[@thomasrinschler6783]

17:29 That priest would later be the one to receive Charles' deathbed conversion to Catholicism. After the Restoration, he secured a place on Queen Catherine's staff, and when Charles was dying, his brother James brought Huddleston in, saying, "Sire, this good man once saved your life. He now comes to save your soul." I hadn't heard about Charles' escape myself until a few months ago, and found the story fascinating. Charles was exposed to the common people and their lives in a way that few kings would ever experience, and it probably served him well as king, giving him that common touch he was well known for.

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, I read that too. It wasn't really part of this story though so I didn't want to get too waylaid. Yes, I agree that most people in his position had never seen how the other half really lived and it probably was eye opening for him and later useful. He certainly talked about his great escape for the rest of his life.

[@edithengel2284]

I always thought that, apart from any temperamental differences, this was one of the great distinctions between Charles and his brother James.

[@heden1460]

I knew about the tree, but not about the rest of it. You told that very well. It was interesting.

[@HistoryCalling]

Thank you. Yes, it's not as well known about as I think it should be.

[@donnicholas7552]

Wow! Charles II sure did have a wild adventure!

[@HistoryCalling]

He did indeed. People often forget the misery he went through on the way to the throne.

[@maya8627]

So many people knew of his whereabouts..and no one betrayed him.Charles ii was the epitome of cool.And he was loved. ​@HistoryCalling

[@HawkqOjOp]

Wow, what a story!!! I bet his hair was the reason for all the "wigs" thereafter ha ha. I always knew that he had escaped to France, but had no idea what he went through to accomplish that, so yes, I learned from your video, thank you!!!! Your presentation read like a great novel as you told it! I liked King Charles II also! I always stop when I see his name, because he gave thousands of acres to Lord Baltimore in the states, who gave it to a man named Eltonhead, who gave it to Lt. Trueman, who gave it to my direct ancestor, who ended up with about 1,400 or so acres in the states, and seats in early U.S. government. Who you may not readily connect them to in prior years, is the Cecil family (a/k/a Lord Burghely)! Not only was Lord Burghley (William Cecil Sr.) a family attorney of my ancestors in England in the 1500/1600s, his distant Cecil descendant was AGAIN our family attorney in the states, and then married my GGGGGG grandmother after my GGGGGG grandfather died, and they had 2 more children. The reason I mention the above, is because several well-known families were all friends, and all immigrated together or hooked up again in the states - all being close in England, then again in the states (by "close," I mean marriages, attorneys, next door neighbors, etc.) so I'm shocked that some of these families didn't help partake in providing King Charles his temporary hideaways. I guess they might have been prime targets for a search. I'm referring to the Selby family, the Beal(Beall) family, the Haggerstons, the Alstons, and the noble Greys, and the Cecils. Please keep presenting these little gems of stories behind the scenes from that time period, I'll drink them up. Thanks again for filling a gap in many of our collections of knowledge!

[@DiniAdd0807]

Great video! I had never heard this story before.

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, I don't think it's terribly well known which is strange to me, because it's such a corker!

[@stephanieking4444]

Great account of Charles II's time as an ordinary man on the run. His adventures do make him endearing. He never forgot those who had taken risks for him during that time. He converted to Catholicism on his death bed, to Father Huddleston, the priest who had helped saving him after the defeat at Worcester.

[@gillsinclair6927]

I always thought of Charles II as a bit of a fearty but you've proven me wrong. I didn't know just how much he risked. Thanks so much.

[@HistoryCalling]

Oh yes, he was actually pretty brave and hardy. He really went through the wringer to get his throne back.

[@LisafromNOLA]

I must admit before this video wasn’t very familiar with his story. Thank you so much for always putting so much effort into your work! You have brought so much history to life for me! ♥️♥️♥️

[@HistoryCalling]

Hey Lisa. Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for watching. :-)

[@LisafromNOLA]

@@HistoryCalling ♥️♥️♥️

[@FandersonUfo]

very glad Charles found that oak - meanwhile the things that were done to Cromwell's corpse after it was buried were particularly gruesome and well worth your talent for narration - also dead body vids tend to get a lot of views for your channel - ty HC

[@HistoryCalling]

I've been wanting to look at Cromwell's corpse for ages actually (I mean I've gathered up images for it and even remembered to take a picture of his original grave in Westminster Abbey back in 2022 for that very reason), but every time I gear up to do it some other channel does it and then I put it off so I don't look like a copycat. The other issue is that I can't show the photos of his head from the 1930s as YT wouldn't like that. Most annoying!

[@FandersonUfo]

@@HistoryCalling - I figured you probably knew of the tale and thanks for explaining why you haven't covered it yet - as good as a head shot would be to include I found a text description grisly enough years ago - very glad it's on your radar anyway - thanks HC - 🛸✨

[@HistoryCalling]

If it helps, right this minute (in between answering YT comments), I'm working on a video about another famous dead person and the nasty things that happened to their corpse. It should be out in the New Year.

[@georgerobartes2008]

Thousands of Africans weren't so happy . At the Restoration in 1660 , CIIR formed the Royal African Company with his brother the Duke of York . Initially set up to trade gold it quickly moved into the more lucrative trade of slavery. CIIR granted the RAC a monopoly in this trade and the Royal family built its wealth on this . The British people have been suffering ever since .

[@JayArgonauts]

Boscobel House is just a few miles from where I live and a great place to visit. It is run by English Heritage who have started a programme of replanting oak trees to give an impression of how it looked in Charles’ day.

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, it's really beautiful. I enjoyed my day out there and the walk down to the old priory.

[@annmoore6678]

I think the most incredible part of the story is just that this young man, raised in luxury, had enough determination, and so much ability to accept and cope with reality, that he was able to escape. He had to face up to so many uncomfortable and dangerous situations and adapt so quickly! How many centuries had it been since any other claimant to the throne had lived rough in the woods, play-acted so skillfully, and dealt with so many physical hardships? What a guy! I read Charles Spencer's book, and it seems that Charles himself, after he was out of danger, looked back on it as one of the best times of his life. It harks back to the soldier kings like Henry V, or even to Alfred the Great, hiding out from the Vikings in the marshes of Somerset. I have to wonder how the current Charles would have fared in such a situation!

[@isabellabourchier3498]

Richard Penderel was my 10 x great grandfather. Boscobel still make relatives very welcome and have a visitors book to capture our visits.

[@HistoryCalling]

I see another commenter has said he's her 8x g-grandfather. The two of you are distant cousins!

[@philip2595]

What a tale indeed. I didn't realize Charles II was a chap of such fortitude. Much enjoyed HC thank you.

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, he was quite a guy really. It's a shame the Stuarts (and everyone really) get overshadowed by the Tudors. They have some great stories too.

[@jdlane3442]

Wow, thank you for putting this story all together. The Colonel Lane involved in the story is my 9th Great grandfather. His sister was Jane Lane.

[@AXEL00754]

Yes - the whole story is incredible and definitely worth a mini-series treatment. I wonder how many men, suspected to be Charles II, were grabbed by the Roundheads during their search for him. We will never know. Thank you for another wonderful story from a fan of the country where Charles III is presently visiting. 🦘

[@HistoryCalling]

Now there's a good point. You've got me wondering now too!

[@En_Marche]

What a well-researched, well-written, and action-packed episode! Thank you, HC!

[@HistoryCalling]

Thank you so much. It's certainly quite a tale.

[@michaelsmythe4031]

A very good telling of the story by an Ulsterwoman by the sounds. I found it gripping.

[@HistoryCalling]

Thank you very much and yes, I am indeed Northern Irish 😁

[@michaelsmythe4031]

@@HistoryCalling The best part of the island of Ireland,I have to say.Not because I came from there back in the day.😊

[@joannabaparileszczynska]

He sure was lucky (and brave), I wonder if so many people were willing to help him because they didn’t like Cromwell. He did essentially ban anything that was fun. And people who worked hard their entire lives liked festivities for the brake they provided

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, I think his personal bravery and resourcefulness gets overlooked a lot of the time, but he was quite something. It might have been a dislike of Cromwell and the Puritans, but I think Charles was very likeable too and had the good fortune to spend most of his time on the run with royalists.

[@joannabaparileszczynska]

@@HistoryCalling at that point he seemed to be more down to earth and didn’t make a fuss about all his predicaments

[@marinaknife4595]

King Charles II seems to have been a courageous & quick thinking man - suffering incredible hardship & horrifying tensions while in hiding & travelling & he held it together to the Nth degree. Simply an admirable man with a deep interest & zest for life.

[@maya8627]

He was cool.

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, his bravery and hardiness tend to get overlooked because people focus on the merry monarch section of his life, but like Henry VII he really had to fight and suffer to get his throne.

[@robertagardner5461]

If you like Charles then you would love Charles's cousin Prince Rupert of the Rhine. He was Charles the firsts nephew and fought for the Royalists during the Civil War. Rupert has been very overlooked by historians. He was a scientist an artist a statesman and an inventor. I have studied him for over 30 years and keep finding fascinating sides to this man. I hope you will consider a video about Rupert.

[@HistoryCalling]

I've heard of him, but never looked at him in detail. Thanks for the tip :-)

[@lisaharner3720]

What an incredible story. I had heard he hid in an oak tree but had not heard the full extent of his escapade or how long it dragged out. It was amazing that he encountered so many people who were willing to help him elude capture. I enjoyed your coverage of this account so much that I’m going to give it a replay!

[@maryloumawson6006]

Thank you for this thorough telling of the escape of Charles II Being American I'd only ever heard part of the tale in passing - during tours of historical sites such as some of those featured in your video I had no idea how protracted the interval of danger was nor how many times he was nearly discovered nor the sheer number of people who aided him and kept his secret! Like you I found it very surprising that so many people recognized him along the way - even in his shabby clothes and cropped hair It really accentuates just how much danger he was in especially knowing their was an enormous price on his head! Also unknown to me was the fact of Charles' own first hand account of his adventurous journey to escape his kingdom Now a question - Why is this tale not as well known (in America at least) as that of the Tudors? Thanks again for all your hard work and research!

[@HistoryCalling]

I know, right? It should be so much better known. I think everything just gets overlooked in favour of the Tudors, especially when the stories have happy endings, as this one did for Charles. It's up there with Henry VII's adventures on his way to the throne though.

[@jbos5107]

I've been waiting all day to watch this. It was worth it. I hope the king repaid the people that helped him. He owed a great deal to regular folk.

[@HistoryCalling]

I believe he did take care of quite a few of them once he was on the throne. 😁

[@kenrichardson7542]

During one of your other wonderful videos it crossed my mind that a whole video about Charles's escape would be interesting....and You proved me right! Thank You!

[@HistoryCalling]

Thank you and obviously great minds think alike! :-)

[@lauraritag5188]

I think it shows how likable and charming he must have been, that so many supported him and in the end when cromwell died he came back with relative ease. Especially in a time when there were all sorts of christianity sects that he had to appease and navigate. Great video as always 😊

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, I think he was a popular bloke with those who got to know him. All those mistresses seem to have been flocking to him of their own accord after all! :-) (poor Queen Catherine though).

[@lauraritag5188]

@@HistoryCalling I know, his affairs were notorious, I do get the feeling though that although it would have been unbelievably hurtful to Catherine he didn't do it to be hurtful. I theorise that if he would have been born in the 20th/21st century he would have been all for the free love movement and wouldn't try to commit to monogamy.

[@arinasosnovskaya5298]

​@lauraritag5188 well, it really wasn't his fault that he was a king and it was obligatory for him to have a wife. I always thought he would have rather not.

[@ferencfoldvary7988]

Loved that - thank you so much ! There’s an OakApple pub in Worcester where they say it is where he hid up the tree

[@miladyblue5077]

Wow, was this a history lesson, or a pitch for a Medieval era Indiana Jones movie? Henry VII would have definitely said the equivalent of "been there, done that," in comparing his own perils to those of Charles II. Thank you for one of the most nail biting videos on your channel - maybe you should make a pitch to Steven Spielberg to make a movie of this.

[@maya8627]

Charles ii's escape after the batlle of Worcester is my favorite bit of history for sheer suspense and entertainment. So many things could have gone a lot worse.He was so cool,and so many people loved him and kept him alive.It truly was a miraculous escape. As an old man he never tired of sharing his adventure. Every year or two,i go back and read all about it. Whatever people may think of him,i like Charles ii.

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, it's such a great story. There should be a film about it. It would be a nice change from the constant rehashing of the Tudors' stories.

[@happycommuter3523]

Fantastic video! I thought Henry VII got the runaround (and he wasn’t even king then), but Charles II really could have told Henry, “Hold my beer.”

[@HistoryCalling]

Haha, yes I know what you mean. They both had very tough journeys to the throne. At least Charles had French royals as close family who were willing to help him out though. That was something. Henry was part French too of course, but he spent a lot of time on the run on the continent, or locked up.

[@roserenik6375]

I had never heard that story. Great story and a great escape for Charles.

[@claredunne7897]

This was such an enjoyable and riveting account! Thanks so much for the video. I agree with you, I like him too 😊

[@Rat_Queen86]

I can’t think about Charles the 2nd without hearing the song from Horrible Histories 😂 Great video as always ❤

[@HistoryCalling]

Haha, poor Charles! Reduced to a song 😂

[@faytsampouri6197]

Perfect...as always HC❤❤❤

[@booliev3275]

Fascinating story, wonderfully told.. It was 30mn of delight. Thank you!

[@HistoryCalling]

Thank you very much. I'm glad you enjoyed it. It doesn't get told often enough in my opinion (which I find odd, because it's such a great tale).

[@JessicaBradshaw-rg7vi]

I have been to the Royal Oak Pub

[@paddypaddy2834]

This whole story is news to me!!! Thank you for sharing the adventure!

[@jeanhawken4482]

Always good clear information

[@HistoryCalling]

Thank you :-)

[@SurferJoe1]

Bravo! Terrific story, and well-told! This is one that I've always wanted to know more about, because when you encounter stately homes in old movies and such they often claim to have hidden Charles. I knew there was a story there, but once again you've given us a movie that needs to be made. I'm curious now how often this has been portrayed on the big screen.

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, I actually found myself in one of those homes AFTER I'd completed this video and had to come home from holiday and re-edit it to include the new footage. I don't remember ever seeing it on screen, but it should be.

[@SurferJoe1]

@@HistoryCalling Wow! How cool is that?

[@joyoung2483]

I thought this might be a dull episode, but holy cow! I knew there was a lot of to-ing and fro-ing involved, but talk about a wild tale. This should be a movie.

[@DarthDread-oh2ne]

Fun fact: Did you know, Mara Thesea of Austria(The only female Habsburg ruler) made a famous speech that was similar to the speech made by Queen Elizabeth the first. “ I am a poor queen, but I have the heart of a king.” This is only a small bit of it

[@HistoryCalling]

I didn't, but I wonder if there was a little bit of plagiarism going on?

[@DarthDread-oh2ne]

I think it’s so funny how one queen used it against a Hapsburg and another Hapsburg used it.

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, that's very true. I have a Hapsburg video coming up in a few weeks actually. You'll know it when you see it.

[@agatha6999]

I find it fascinating just how many people were willing to risk their necks for Charles. You mentioned them recognizing him was cause of him travelling a lot which makes sense but I gotta say he seems to have had the miracle of being a likable person cause there were so many times he got caught 😭😭

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, I found it remarkable too how well known his face was. I suppose nowadays we tend to think that in the time before photographs, no one could be recognised by the masses, but I altered my opinion on that point whilst making the video. Of course it helped that he was quite striking looking, with his unusual height.

[@Vito-yp5wh]

Eine einfach atemberaubende Geschichte!!!!

[@ladonnaradney3466]

❤ Wonderful video! I had no idea that 👑 C2 went through so much. This makes me want to read more 💻📚🔍

[@cherihayward350]

I live on the river severn, this is so cool ❤

[@ben_1017a]

What a fantastic story! And beautifully told. Thank you!!!

[@HistoryCalling]

You're welcome. Glad you liked it. I wish Charles's great escape was better known about actually.

[@vernon2542]

That was a great story, I pretty much enjoyed the whole thing. You made it sound like quite the journey and back in that time it probably was either walking or riding by horse. Thanks HC

[@HistoryCalling]

Thanks Vernon. Yes, it was indeed. Poor Charles though, not being able to wear his own shoes. I think his feet were absolutely wrecked. Even riding wearing someone else's shoes probably isn't comfortable.

[@reginapopihn9853]

I did not know anything about Charles II, except that he existed- mainly because I went to school here in Germany, and here it´s mostly Henry VIII and Elizabeth I they talk about in school. But what an adventure he had... I got the impression of a royal Robin Hood, a man in green clothes, surrounded by some merry (and some not so merry) people. I liked especially his impersonation as a lady´s servant on the way to her pregnant sister. At least he had not to walk all the time in this ill-fitting shoes.

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, he had a very exciting life. It's a pity his story isn't better known about. I'm glad too that he didn't have to walk everywhere in those shoes. Even if the horse wasn't very good, it was better than having to travel by foot.

[@algini12]

This was a story I never heard, nor did I know any of the harrowing details, even about the Oak. This story was interesting. I had seen your story on the princes in the Tower, but I never felt it or a couple others, were of sufficient quality, to add another channel to my large cue of subscribed channels. It's been some time since I last saw one of your vids. But your stories have improved in your choice and quality, so I subscribed. I have to look forward to any new videos before I subscribe to any channel, and this one tipped me into doing so. Keep up the good work! I do admit, as an American, that with the way you pronounce some of your words, that I find your accent to be rather hilarious. Now is new? lol. Which only adds to my interest your stories. ☺🤫 🤣

[@HistoryCalling]

Umm, thank you, I think 🤣

[@davinasquirrel7672]

Very much appreciated, thank you. Clarified a few things I did not know.

[@HistoryCalling]

You're welcome. It's certainly a great tale. It should be a movie.

[@davinasquirrel7672]

@@HistoryCalling The bonus being, I get to bust another family myth/legend! I have already busted two. :)

[@gottardofanatic]

The portrait in the still with the beautiful armour and at 8'45 is from Philippe de Champaigne 1602-1674. He was the royal painter of Louis XIII and Richelieu👍

[@lorrainecasey749]

I think this shows King Charles character and whole personality that no one betrayed him. ☺️

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, it is remarkable that no one sold him out. He obviously engendered a lot of loyalty and admiration. Of course he's also just lucky that he was generally surrounded by royalists.

[@OkieJammer2736]

Wowww. What an awful experience. Thanks for your excellent work and as always, really interesting videos.

[@HistoryCalling]

You're welcome. Glad you enjoyed it. It's always nice for me to get away from the Tudors for a while too.

[@patriciakeogh5008]

I throughly enjoyed that 😀 I knew of the story, but I had never heard it. My surprise is, that so many people were loyal to him with their lives. No one gave him away, which was so very brave of them.

[@amandagreen4332]

Historic trees often get the short end of the stick. Poor Stumpy in Washington DC (USA) is a recent sad loss. Thankfully, C II encountered a grand tree when he needed it most!

[@HistoryCalling]

I absolutely agree. Some worthless little sh**s cut down a very famous tree in England called the Sycamore Gap tree this year and it made me so mad.

[@eliscanfield3913]

You might find the story of Connecticut's Charter Oak interesting. The short version is James II and his guy Andros tried to consolidate Connecticut with some other colonies in the future US, and to do that they would have to revoke some charters, physically take them. Andros met with Connecticut bigwigs to try to seize the charter. (on Halloween, amusingly enough) According to the story, they showed it to him, but then the lights were blown out, the charter tossed out the window, and it was hidden in the hollow of a nearby oak tree until Andros went away empty handed

[@xwiirastusx]

As to your reservations towards King Charles II character as a husband to Catherine of Braganza I would like to quote Rose Nylund addressing Blanche Devereaux in the Golden Girls: "No, Blanche, your'e not a bad person, your'e just horny all the time".

[@HistoryCalling]

Haha! I dunno if Catherine would have seen it like that though :-)

[@xwiirastusx]

@@HistoryCalling what other choice did she have, seriously? On more serious note, some historians have pointed out that the Bourbons - to whom King Charles II was closely related - had a proclivity towards hypersexuality. I must confess I don't know all that much about Charles II but I do know a thing or two about Louis XIV - the man had an insatiable appetite for outdoor pursuits, food and women. Had he lived in a defferent century, he would have made a perfect Olympic champion. Instead he laid the groundworks for an unsustainable political system which would bite his descendants in the arse in most violant way imaginable.

[@chewmonster8722]

Many thanks for posting the full details of an incredible six weeks of history. I live near Wolfe’s barns and it’s wonderful that you have mentioned them in your commentary, as this location sometimes gets overlooked.

[@2ndviolin]

Wow, what an adventure!

[@Toldmeturn]

Another scintillating video, your accent is beautiful and i'm sure the woman behind it is too

[@HistoryCalling]

Thank you kindly :-)

[@nyckolaus]

Fantastic! Amazing story! Thank you!

[@HistoryCalling]

You're welcome. It's a great tale. I wish it was better known about.

[@nyckolaus]

@@HistoryCalling In the BBC series, The First Churchills, the same Catholic priest is secretly escorted to Charles' deathbed to receive him into the Catholic Church. At that time, Charles receives a letter from his wife, asking for forgiveness, but he responds that it is he who needs her forgiveness. A fantastic series.

[@chrisbanks6659]

Mischievous Me wishes in some small part that we had / we need an Oliver Cromwell today if only to deal with the Head Clown and his Minions in so called charge at Downing Street today. In fact a complete re-set to Year Zero would be more ideal & I wonder how long it would take for us to get back to the same sorry state of affairs we are in today. I watched the excellent film version of 'Cromwell' just this weekend. For a history lesson, it's actually quite accurate (one of the few examples). Thanks HC - always keeping us on our toes.🤓

[@HistoryCalling]

Oh I dunno if we'd want Cromwell back. He was quite the extremist after all, though I agree he'd make short work of modern politicians, mostly because he had very little issue with killing people (always an interesting personality trait I think, in people who say they are deeply Christian. They seem to have missed some of the core points of the whole religion, no matter which branch of it they're on).

[@chrisbanks6659]

@@HistoryCalling I am less of a murderous type of extremist, I would hope but would welcome him back, nevertheless. I am also Areligious. So I guess that woud make a neutral to most. 🤔🤥

[@shannonkohler5310]

I love your channel ❤️

[@HistoryCalling]

Thanks Shannon. Hope you love this video too :-)

[@shannonkohler5310]

Oh this story was amazing!!! I positively love learning about the monarchs from one to the next. ​@HistoryCalling

[@od1452]

It was an adventure to be sure. I am most surprised that no one betrayed him as so much of his trip was improvised and so many people recognized him. ( I suspect many leaders were recognized by few people then) . Off topic ... If I remember correctly , his return was to have no revenge , that promise was not followed but he didn't go after all the people involved with his father's death. Do you think some of the nobility was happy to be rid them too ? I always thought the Ship Oak Royal was named after the King's adventure but don't know.

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, it was quite a journey and he was very lucky. Oh I'm sure the royalist nobility were delighted to be rid of the hardline Puritans. I know I would have been :-)

[@dougmiles7124]

I was already familiar with the story. I remember reading that later, he'd ask his companions about their feet because of the shoes he'd put up with during his escape. Unfortunately, I've long forgotten the source.

[@melissadickerson1773]

Lord Wilmot was John Wilmot, who became Second Earl of Rochester. You can learn about him by watching The Libertine. Johnny Depp does a fantastic job of portraying John Wilmot, and John Malkovich plays Charles II.

[@cyndicook7755]

Excellent movie!

[@melissadickerson1773]

​@@cyndicook7755yes it was!

[@AlexKS1992]

You could make a movie about this whole event and I would watch it. Reminds me of The Fugitive which is a movie I recommend people watch except it involves a King and a more harrowing story.

[@kazoolibra7322]

Thank you, HC 😮 I am increasingly interested in the 17th century events...a tumultuous time!! It is impressive that there were so many willing to loyally shelter him and cover-up for him while he fled...surely dangerous for them 😮

[@HistoryCalling]

I know. He was sooo lucky. If he'd bumped into just one roundhead who'd recognised him in time he'd have been executed I imagine.

[@Whookieee]

I ordered one of the books you recommended so fast! What an amazing story.

[@HistoryCalling]

Thank you. I hope you enjoy it :-)

[@AnnaAnna-uc2ff]

How is it possible that this part of Charles II's life has never been made into a movie or TV series? Googling showed me just one mini-series over 20 years ago, which doesn't seen to include all the adventure.

[@HistoryCalling]

I know. It's wild. TV and movie bosses have missed a trick.

[@beth7935]

It was a very good series though!

[@eliscanfield3913]

That'd be a hell of a movie, but it'd scarcely be believable.

[@HistoryCalling]

I know. Sometimes fact is stranger than fiction. I can't guarantee you that in the movie he'd have an affair with Jane though. They'd have to put in some romantic subplot.

[@eliscanfield3913]

@@HistoryCalling probably, lol.

[@marvwatkins7029]

The most educated Northern Irish Person.

[@pierremainstone-mitchell8290]

A thoroughly enjoyable and exciting tale which would make a great film!

[@catherineball5071]

This ia such a great story! I dint know why it isnt told more often

[@HistoryCalling]

Same here. How has it not had the Hollywood treatment???

[@catherineball5071]

@HistoryCalling I can really see it as an epic TV series. The stuarts were such a fascinating royal family. Its a shame the tudors hog all the attention.

[@lfgifu296]

ooh nice! I once read about Charles’ escape tale but unfortunately it was some years ago and I don’t remember it that well🥲 so thanks!

[@DarthDread-oh2ne]

Hi friend !!! I hope you’re having a wonderful day and your tests are going well.

[@lfgifu296]

@@DarthDread-oh2ne hi! I’m good, if stressed, hope you are well :) I’m still studying for the exams, alas I procrastinate too much🥲

[@HistoryCalling]

I didn't know about it in this level of detail either, but it's quite a tale. Someone should make a movie about it.

[@lfgifu296]

@@HistoryCalling yes! But hopefully w good costumes (or is that too much wishful thinking? [yes]) I overall agree w your assessment of Charles, BUT a big exception is made, as you said, for the way he treated Catherine (at least he didn’t pull a Henry VIII, though). He also apparently (don’t remember where I read this so don’t quote me on it but it def fits his character) spent too much money on his mistresses, so yeah, that whole part of him I look heavily down upon, but he’s still my fav Stuart monarch both in personality and reign and, as you said, I quite like him.

[@ginnyburley9552]

This story is incredible! Has it been made into a movie? It would make a really good one.

[@HistoryCalling]

I can't think of any film that covers it, but it would be a great stand alone story all on its own.

[@patricktracey7424]

that tree has a lot to answer for its a pity cromwell didn't live longer and that his son wasn't as great as his father

[@SuzanneCoe]

I reckon he is great, so strong, in such rebellious times, who fought for his right, he’s cool, 👍👍👍

[@HistoryCalling]

Yes, he's a great historical figure. It's a shame he gets a bit overlooked.

[@tykat12]

I missed this when it came out, what an enjoyable video! And what a harrowing adventure for Charles!!!

[@HistoryCalling]

Thank you. Yes, there should be a movie about this for sure.

[@EndingSimple]

One of the few times a king actually deserved his crown.

[@carolinegreenwell9086]

Quite an adventure !!

[@HistoryCalling]

It sure was. As I've been saying to a lot of other commenters, I can't believe Hollywood has never made a movie out of it.

[@robnewman6101]

Wow. Very Interesting.

[@HistoryCalling]

Thank you. Yes, it's a fascinting story. There should be a movie about it.

[@GodzHarleyGirlStudio]

Just watched Julie Montague (Vicountess Hinchingbrooke” at the Scon castle. This video mentioned it and you always do such a great job teaching us about this history.

[@HistoryCalling]

Thank you. Glad you enjoyed learning about this episode.

[@Ragdollcatlover]

I live in Worcester and worked in the house Charles stayed in when I was a student - it has been a restaurant in recent years. That place has a great deal of paranormal activity going on in it.

[@HistoryCalling]

Ah, speaking of paranormal activity I think you'll like next week's Halloween video!

[@Ragdollcatlover]

@@HistoryCalling ooh sounds interesting!

[@BMW7series251]

Wow HC, what a very informative video. Just loved the detail. Have you yet done a video of the destruction to churches, royal jewels, etc by Oliver Cromwell? Thanks for the download, regards, John.

[@HistoryCalling]

I haven't done a video strictly on that topic (I think it would be too vast for me), but I do mention Cromwell's destruction of some crown jewels and his selling off of royal paintings in some other videos. I think the one on the coronation crown would be the best one to look at.

[@BMW7series251]

@@HistoryCalling Thank you, will look it up.

[@alexkirtel]

Excellent work per usual. Weekly tribute to algorithm.

[@HistoryCalling]

Thanks Alex. I wish more people were 'algorithm aware'.

[@VincentComet-l8e]

‘Tattersall recognised Charles…but remained loyal to him…’ Tattersall, an apparently pretty unpleasant character, wasn’t quite as quixotic as that. Immediately he demanded the cost of making the escape on his collier be increased from the previously-agreed sum of £60 to £200, a fantastic amount of money in those days. Charles, with pursuers still hard on his heels, had little option but to agree. With this amazing windfall Tattersall bought an inn/tavern on Brighton seafront which, much enlarged, remains in business today as the Old Ship Hotel…