Charles I was the first English monarch to be executed. His reign from 1625 to 1649 was marked by conflict with Parliament over issues of governance and taxation. Tensions escalated into the English Civil War, where Charles attempted to maintain his power against parliamentary forces led by Oliver Cromwell. Following his defeat, he was captured and tried for treason. Despite his claims of divine right, he was found guilty and executed on January 30, 1649. His execution represented a significant moment in British history, symbolizing the struggle for parliamentary democracy and limiting the power of the monarchy, paving the way for future governance reforms.