BBC - History - British History in depth: Choosing Sides in the English Civil War Choosing Sides in the English Civil War By Dr Mike Stoyle Last updated 2011-02-17 From royalism and religion to money and women, Dr Mark Stoyle uncovers the complex motivations behind the choosing of sides in the English Civil War. On this page Print this page Introduction Between 1642 and 1646 England was torn apart by a bloody civil war. On the one hand stood the supporters of King Charles I: the Royalists. On the other stood the supporters of the rights and privileges of Parliament: the Parliamentarians. Shortly before the war broke out, partisans of both sides began to apply an insulting nickname to their opponents, little dreaming that the two scornful labels which they had chosen for each other would ring down through the succeeding centuries. ...the two scornful labels which they had chosen for each other would ring down through the succeeding centuries. To the Parliamentarians, the Royalists were 'Cavaliers' - a term derived from the Spanish word 'Caballeros', meaning armed troopers or horsemen.

To the Royalists, the Parliamentarians were 'Roundheads' - a reference to the shaved heads of the London apprentices who had been so active in demonstrating their support for Parliament during the months before the fighting began. Both terms reveal a lot about what the two sides thought of each other. In Parliamentarian eyes, the typical Royalist was a dissolute gentleman, possessed of a suspiciously foreign air and prone to acts of sudden violence. As far as the Royalists were concerned, the typical Parliamentarian was a 'base mechanic': a low-born, lumpen townsman, inexperienced in judgment and inelegant in appearance. There was more than a grain of truth in these stereotypes, but it would be wrong to conclude from them that the Civil War was primarily a class war, a punch up between 'toffs' and 'toughs'. The considerations which prompted men and women to choose the sides they did between 1642 and 1646 were infinitely more varied and subtle than the two-party labels suggest. Top The personality of Charles I At the heart of the conflict lay the policies and personality of the King himself. Charles I was a reserved, slightly diffident figure whose abilities as a monarch left a good deal to be desired.

During the 1630s, his apparent determination to rule England without the assistance of Parliament, his introduction of all sorts of controversial financial measures and his support for 'high-church' religious practices aroused considerable alarm among his subjects. Many people, particularly the more zealous protestants, or 'puritans', came to fear that Charles was pursuing a hidden agenda: that he planned to remove his people's rights, or 'liberties', and to restore England to the Catholic fold. ...[Charles'] abilities as a monarch left a good deal to be desired. When, in 1637, Charles attempted to introduce a new form of prayer book in his northern kingdom of Scotland, a major rebellion erupted. The King did not have enough money to raise an army against the Scots and was therefore forced to summon a Parliament. Yet the men who assembled at Westminster were unwilling to give the King the money he needed until their own grievances had been dealt with. The angry, disaffected members of Parliament seized political control and set about dismantling the hated instruments of the Personal Rule.

During 1640-41, Charles I's prerogative courts were abolished, his ministers arrested or forced to flee, and his unpopular financial expedients declared illegal. To many contemporaries, it seemed that the kingdom's political problems were solved. In fact, they were only just beginning. Top The road to war A contemporary cartoon © In late 1640 Charles I had faced a political élite which was almost wholly united against him. In late 1641 this was no longer the case. By this time a split had emerged in Parliament - and, still more dangerously, in the country at large - between those who wished for further reform, and those who felt that the recent changes had gone quite far enough. Friction was particularly apparent between religious conservatives, men and women who were happy with the Church of England as it had been established at the time of the Reformation, and more 'Godly' protestants', those who considered the Church to be 'but half reformed' and were determined to rid it of the 'rags and patches of Rome'. As time went by, religious traditionalists became increasingly alienated from the more radical spirits and turned to the King for support.

Charles thus found himself with a swelling political constituency and, emboldened by this change in his fortunes, he made a bold attempt to seize back the political initiative. In January 1642 Charles strode into the Parliament house with a body of soldiers and demanded the persons of five MPs whom he had declared to be traitors. The King's plan went badly wrong. Not only did the men he sought manage to escape, but public opinion was outraged by his action. London was soon in an uproar, and the King, fearing for his life, was forced to flee. War was now inevitable and over the next few months rival sides began to emerge across the country. Top Class divisions Among the peerage and the greater gentry, a majority favoured the King: partly, perhaps, because they felt bound to him by ties of personal loyalty, mainly because they saw him as the chief guarantor of the established social order. Similar considerations influenced the lesser gentry. Among this group, too, it seems probable that supporters of the Crown outnumbered supporters of the Parliament, though by a considerably narrower margin. Beneath the level of the gentry it is harder to make definite connections between social status and political allegiance.

Many historians believe that the 'middling sort' of people were more inclined to favour Parliament than the King because Parliament's party was less rigidly hierarchical - and this may well have been so. Yet, for the vast majority of ordinary men and women, it was factors other than those of 'class' or 'rank' which determined the eventual choice of sides. Mercenaries and conscripts I care not for your Cause, I... fight for your halfe-crowne[s], and your handsome woemen. Some had no particular preference for either party, but joined up with the first army which happened to come along, in the hope of pay and plunder. Captain Carlo Fantom, one of the hundreds of foreign mercenaries who flocked to England during the Civil War, frankly admitted that 'I care not for your Cause, I... fight for your halfe-crowne[s], and your handsome woemen'. Others found themselves forced to fight when they would much rather have stayed at home: tenants called out by their landlords, for example, and village rogues conscripted by parish constables who were anxious to see them gone. Some were even compelled to fight at gunpoint.

In Lancashire, the Royalists press-ganged crowds of local men and marched them away to attack the Parliamentarian garrison at Bolton, 'the reare being brought up with troopers that had commission to shoot such as lagged behind, so as the poor countrymen ... [were] in a dilemma of death, either by the troopers if they went not on, or by the... shot of the towne if they did'. Top Ideological and ethnic divisions Yet for every man who enlisted under compulsion, or for purely mercenary reasons, there was another who did so because he sincerely believed in what he was doing. One of the best definitions of the ideological division which lay at the heart of the Civil War was given by the Worcestershire clergyman, Richard Baxter. 'The generality of the people... who were then called puritans, precisians, religious persons', Baxter wrote, those 'that used to talk of God, and heaven, and scripture, and holiness... adhered to the Parliament. And on the other side...

[those] that were not so precise and strict against an oath, or gaming, or plays, or drinking nor troubled themselves so much about the matters of God and the world to come [adhered to the King]'. Baxter's view was biased, of course. Royalist sympathisers would have countered that it was not that they were irreligious, but that they remained true to a purer, more traditional form of Protestantism: one which was untainted by puritan 'zeal'. Nevertheless, Baxter's words convey an essential truth. Across the country as a whole, it was religion which ultimately divided the two parties. Puritans everywhere supported the Parliament, more conservative protestants - together with the few Catholics - supported the King. ...it was religion which ultimately divided the two parties. Beneath the all important religious divisions lurked anxieties about nationhood and ethnicity. Parliament set out, from the very first, to portray itself as the party of 'Englishness', and although this image played well throughout most of the kingdom, it provoked a counter-reaction in 'Celtic' Cornwall and Wales.

Here, the overwhelming majority of the population came out for the King in 1642, and throughout the rest of the war these two regions remained Charles I's most important 'magazines of men'. Cornish and Welsh troops were vital to the Royalist war effort, but the King's reliance upon them reinforced his opponents' claims that the royalist party was fundamentally 'un-English'. So did Charles' use of soldiers brought over from Ireland, many of whom, the Parliamentarians maintained, were Catholics. During the first half of the war, Parliament's close links with the Scots tended to undermine the claim that Parliament's cause was the cause of England itself - and anti-Scottish feeling undoubtedly helped to bring many English men and women into the King's camp. Once the relationship between Parliament and the Scots started to deteriorate in 1645, however, and the King began to court the Scots in his turn, this situation changed. Top The final choice: subjugation or liberation As Charles I's attempts to secure 'foreign' soldiers in any way he could became more widely known, the choice facing the English people seemed increasingly to be one between national subjugation under the King and national liberation under the Parliament.

It was a choice to which there could only be one response. Those who had initially rallied to the King's banner now deserted him in droves - and the defeat of the Royalist party in arms was the inevitable result. In June 1646 the King's wartime capital, Oxford, was surrendered to the Parliamentarian New Model Army. Charles fled in disguise and put himself under the protection of the Scots - but they soon handed him back to Parliament. Two years later the King was led out to the executioner's block, his attempts to recover his position by fomenting a new war - this time between the Scots and Parliament - having finally hardened his captors' hearts against him. On 30 January 1649 the King was beheaded in front of a huge crowd at Whitehall. 'The man Charles Stuart' was gone - but, thanks to the subsequent efforts of royalist propagandists, the memory of 'the martyr king' would live on in the English popular imagination for centuries to come. The British Wars 1637-51 by P. Gaunt (Routledge, 1997) Revolt in the Provinces by J.

Morrill (Longman, 1999) Understanding Popular Violence in the English Revolution: The Colchester Plunderers by J. Walter (Cambridge, 1999) Links The English Civil War Society Group dedicated to re-enacting 17th Century battles. Places to visit The Museum of London has a huge collection of Cromwell documents, artefacts and 'memorabilia'. There is a Cromwell museum in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire and an English Civil War centre at the Commandery , Worcester. Carisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight was used during the Civil War as a prison for Charles I. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel History History The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has an interesting, and perhaps one of the most unique histories of any of the spaniel breeds. The first spaniel type breeds were found in England in the 16th century and were known as Comforters. It is believed that they were valued by both the royal courts and the common people as a way to control fleas, as the insects stayed on the dogs instead of biting humans! Charles 1 had a spaniel named Rogue that he kept with him at all times.

Charles II is the most famous royalty associated with the King Charles Spaniel. He, in fact, made it a law that no King Charles Spaniel could be denied entry into any public building or place. The spaniels were depicted in many famous works of art showing English royalty during the 16th through 18th centuries. Breed changes During the late 18th and mid 19th centuries dog breeding and showing became increasingly popular in England, and many breeders worked to develop distinctive characteristics in particular breeds. One such breed was the King Charles Spaniel. Breeders of the day bred the type for a short muzzle, marked dome-shaped head, low set ears and an overall smaller size. In 1926, an American dog enthusiast named Roswell Elderidge challenged the British breeders to produce a long nosed King Charles Spaniel at the Cruftï¿½s Dog Show, a very prestigious event. In order to catch the attention of the English breeders, he offered a cash price of 25 British pounds, which would be equivalent to about one thousand dollars US today!

He was looking for a male and female King Charles Spaniel that resembled the dogs depicted in the Van Dyck and Gainsborough paintings of historical royalty and their beloved dogs. It is believed that the actual breeds crossed to produce the closest replica of the historic spaniels were a King Charles Spaniel and a Cocker Spaniel. The longer nose and hair as well as the more sturdy body are thought to be a direct influence of the Cocker spaniel line. Some healthy disagreement Some historians of the breed disagree that any outside line was used, and believe that the breed was developed by throwbacks to the original style of spaniels favored by King Charles. This group believes that a small number of breeders continued to breed the longer nosed dogs, and were able to easily keep the appearance since other kennels were discarding the longer nosed males and females. One of the most influential breeders of the early Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was a Mrs. Hewitt Pit. She became influential in the development of the breed after being given a female Blenheim Spaniel. Blenheim refers to the brown and white coat color with the patch of brown in the white at the top of the head. Mrs. Pitt became aware of Mr.

Elderidgeï¿½s wager, and entered her female, Waif Julia, in the class and won best female. She then went on to work to gain recognition for the breed as separate and apart from the other King Charles Spaniels. Interestingly It is interesting to note that Mrs. Pitt used the prefix Ttiweh in the names of her line of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. This is, of course, Hewitt spelled in reverse. The champion bloodlines of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed today still carry the Ttiweh name in many lines. In 1928, the long nosed King Charles spaniel breeders met at Crufts and banded together the form the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club. The word ï¿½Cavalierï¿½ was added to the King Charles name to distinguish the new breed type from the original. In essence the term ï¿½cavalierï¿½ meant a supporter of King Charles, especially in parliament, and so the prefix to the name seemed fitting as these dogs were noted in all the paintings of the royal family, especially those that included King Charles l and his son, King Charles ll.

In the United States today, the original short nosed type is known as the English Toy Spaniel. Breed Registry The Kennel Club of England did not recognize the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel as a separate breed until 1945. At that time they were given their own registry, and officially distinguished from the King Charles Spaniel. In the United States, the American Kennel Club entered the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel into the Miscellaneous Class in 1961. In 1995 they were officially entered into the Toy Group in the AKC registry. Well, that's about it! Thanks for visiting us and we hope you enjoyed learning a little about the history of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Feel free to look around some more at our other pages on our Cavalier King Charles website. This ebook and audio package includes detailed training guidance and tips and other extensive resources to best care for your doggy. There is also a FREE online Cavalier King Charles course available from the homepage. Just Click Here for more details. Bye for now and thanks again for visiting.

Cavalier | Military Wiki | Fandom powered by Wikia Edit Cavalier derives from the same Latin root as the French word chevalier (as well as the Spanish word caballero), the Vulgar Latin word caballarius, meaning “horseman”. Shakespeare used the word cavaleros to describe an overbearing swashbuckler or swaggering gallant in Henry IV, Part 2 , in which Shallow says "I'll drink to Master Bardolph, and to all the cavaleros about London." [2] The Wounded Cavalier by William Shakespeare Burton English Civil War Edit Sir Anthony van Dyck ca.1638, Lord John Stuart and his brother Lord Bernard. Both died fighting for the King. "Cavalier" is chiefly associated with the Royalist supporters of King Charles I in his struggle with Parliament in the English Civil War . It first appears as a term of reproach and contempt, applied to the followers of King Charles I in June 1642: 1642 (June 10) Propositions of Parlt. in Clarendon v. (1702) I.

504 Several sorts of malignant Men, who were about the King; some whereof, under the name of Cavaliers, without having respect to the Laws of the Land, or any fear either of God or Man, were ready to commit all manner of Outrage and Violence. 1642 Petition Lords & Com. 17 June in Rushw. Coll. III. (1721) I. 631 That your Majesty..would please to dismiss your extraordinary Guards, and the Cavaliers and others of that Quality, who seem to have little Interest or Affection to the publick Good, their Language and Behaviour speaking nothing but Division and War. —Oxford English Dictionary "Cavalier" [2] Charles, in the Answer to the Petition June 13, 1642 speaks of Cavaliers as a "word by what mistake soever it seemes much in disfavour". [3] It was soon reappropriated (as a title of honour) by the king's party, who in return applied Roundhead to their opponents, and at the Restoration the court party preserved the name, which survived till the rise of the term Tory .

[3] Cavalier was not understood at the time as primarily a term describing a style of dress, but a whole political and social attitude. However, in modern times the word has become more particularly associated with the court fashions of the period , which included long flowing hair in ringlets, brightly coloured with elaborate trimmings and lace collars and cuffs, and plumed hats . [4] This contrasted with the dress of at least the most extreme Roundhead supporters of Parliament, with their preference for shorter hair and plainer dress, although neither side conformed to the stereotypical images entirely. Most Parliamentarian generals wore their hair at much the same length as their Royalist counterparts, though Cromwell was something of an exception. In fact the best patrons in the nobility of the archetypal recorder of the Cavalier image, Charles I's court painter Sir Anthony van Dyck , all took the Parliamentary side in the Civil War. Probably the most famous image identified as of a "cavalier", Frans Hals ' Laughing Cavalier , in fact shows a gentleman from the strongly Calvinist Dutch town of Haarlem , and is dated 1624.

These derogatory terms (for at the time they were so intended) also showed what the typical Parliamentarian thought of the Royalist side – capricious men who cared more for vanity than the nation at large. Engraving depicting Charles I and his adherents The chaplain to King Charles I, Edward Simmons described a Cavalier as "a Child of Honour, a Gentleman well borne and bred, that loves his king for conscience sake, of a clearer countenance, and bolder look than other men, because of a more loyal Heart." [5] There were many men in the Royalist armies who fit this description since most of the Royalist field officers were typically in their early thirties, married with rural estates which had to be managed. Although they did not share the same outlook on how to worship God as the English Independents of the New Model Army , God was often central to their lives. This type of Cavalier was personified by Lord Jacob Astley whose prayer at the start of the Battle of Edgehill has become famous "O Lord, Thou knowest how busy I must be this day.

If I forget Thee, do not forget me." [6] At the end of the First Civil War Astley gave his word that he would not take up arms again against Parliament and having given his word he felt duty bound to refuse to help the Royalist cause in the Second Civil War . Cromwell's soldiers breaking into the house of a Cavalier—drawing by J. Williamson for the book More Pictures of British History by E.L.Hoskyn , London, 1914 However, the word was coined by the Roundheads as a pejorative propaganda image of a licentious, hard drinking and frivolous man, who rarely, if ever, thought of God. It is this image which has survived and many Royalists, for example Henry Wilmot, 1st Earl of Rochester , fitted this description to a tee.

[7] Of another Cavalier, Lord Goring a general in the Royalist army, [8] the principal advisor to Charles II , Edward Hyde, 1st Earl of Clarendon , said that he "would, without hesitation, have broken any trust, or done any act of treachery to have satisfied an ordinary passion or appetite; and in truth wanted nothing but industry (for he had wit, and courage, and understanding and ambition, uncontrolled by any fear of God or man) to have been as eminent and successful in the highest attempt of wickedness as any man in the age he lived in or before. Of all his qualifications dissimulation was his masterpiece; in which he so much excelled, that men were not ordinarily ashamed, or out of countenance, with being deceived Cavaliers in the arts John Everett Millais , The Proscribed Royalist, 1651 (1853) Barratt, John. Cavalier Generals: King Charles I and His Commanders in the English Civil War, 1642-46, Pen & Sword Military, 2005 Carlton, Charles.

Going to the Wars: The Experience of the British Civil Wars, 1638–1651, Routledge, 1994 ISBN 0-415-10391-6 . Hume David . The History of England from the Invasion of Julius Caesar to the Revolution 1688 (Volume V).T. Cadell, 1841 Manganiello Stephen C. The Concise Encyclopedia of the Revolutions and Wars of England, Scotland, and Ireland, 1639–1660, Scarecrow Press, 2004, ISBN 0-8108-5100-8 Memegalos, Florene S. George Goring (1608–1657): Caroline Courtier and Royalist General, Ashgate Publishing, Ltd., 2007 ISBN 0-7546-5299-8 Oxford English Dictionary Second Edition 1989 (OED). Worden, Blair (2009). The English Civil Wars 1640–1660. London: Penguin Books.

ISBN 0-14-100694-3 . Attribution This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain: Anonymous (1911) " Cavalier " in Chisholm, Hugh Encyclopædia Britannica 5 (11th ed.) Cambridge University Press Further reading BBC - iWonder - Was Oliver Cromwell the father of British democracy? Was Oliver Cromwell the father of British democracy? 1599 1658Cromwell's legacy A meteoric rise to the top Oliver Cromwell was a fanatical puritan who enforced the abolition of Christmas. He rose from relative obscurity as an MP to become one of the most controversial figures in British history. Cromwell won the first civil war involving the whole of Britain and was the key figure in the execution of Charles I. Find out how a revolutionary who toppled a king, only to become a despot himself, paved the way for parliamentary democracy. 1599 An early religious radical Portraits showing Oliver Cromwell's wife Elizabeth and son Richard. Cromwell was born into a fairly wealthy family of landowners in Huntingdonshire. He was the only surviving son.

His religious beliefs were shaped at school. He was influenced by his teacher, Thomas Beard, who wrote a well known puritanical book called The Theatre of God’s Judgement, which portrayed the Pope as the Antichrist. It likely made Cromwell more anti-Catholic. He studied briefly at Cambridge University, but chose sport over his books. After his father’s sudden death, Cromwell returned home to assume control of the house. 1628 Opposed to a despot Portrait of King Charles I by Sir Anthony Van Dyck. Cromwell became MP for Huntington. His first term in Parliament lasted less than a year, not enough time to make an impression. King Charles I didn’t recall Parliament for another 11 years and Cromwell remained in obscurity. He became increasingly opposed to the King’s interpretation of Protestantism, which was at odds with his own austere puritan outlook. 1640 A radical, militant MP MPs who had supported the Scots rebels. Flight of the Five Members by John Seymour Lucas. When the King declared war on Scotland and was forced to recall parliament to raise taxes to pay for it, Cromwell became a leading opposition figure. He encouraged MPs to turn down the King’s request.

Charles I responded by entering the House of Commons with troops to arrest five rebellious MPs, but they had already fled. A radical group formed with Cromwell as one of the leaders, which responded by demanding the surrender of much royal power to Parliament. Indignantly, Charles I refused. Britain was set on the path to civil war. 1644 Revered as a war hero Cromwell at the Battle of Marston Moor, 1644. Cromwell further established his military prowess at the Battle of Marston Moor, when Parliament took control of northern England for the first time. His horsemen broke the Royalist cavalry and successfully attacked their infantry from the rear. Cromwell led from the front, even though he was injured in the neck. He returned to the battlefield to take part in the Parliamentarians' biggest victory to date. Now, Cromwell epitomised their cause. 1645 A supreme tactician You need to have JavaScript enabled to view this clip. Find out how the discipline of the New Model Army made it so effective. Clip from Roundhead or Cavalier: Which one are you?

(BBC Four, 2012) Cromwell helped establish the New Model Army, for the first time a force recruited on merit, not social class - the basis of today's army. He introduced discipline into his troops, which allowed his officers to better control and direct their men. For the first time, the soldiers were paid their wages on a regular basis. The result was a loyal and dedicated army. The most feared section of the New Model Army was the ‘Ironsides’ cavalry. A devastatingly effective military force, it inflicted the Royalists’ biggest defeat at the Battle of Naseby in 1645. Within a year the Civil War was over and Charles I was under house arrest. 1649 Revenge became genocidal You need to have JavaScript enabled to view this clip. See how more butchery was unleashed, notably at Wexford, leaving an indelible mark on Anglo-Irish relations. Clip: Story of Ireland (BBC Two, 2011). The Royalists regrouped and allied with the rebellious Catholics in Ireland. They aimed to invade Britain and overthrow the parliamentary regime.

Cromwell invaded Ireland and attacked a heavily fortified stronghold at Drogheda, on Ireland’s east coast. He stormed the city and slaughtered thousands – a bloody act, which he said was retribution for a Catholic massacre of Protestants in 1641. Cromwell returned to England and in 1651 crushed a Scottish invasion led by King Charles I’s son at the Battle of Worcester. Cromwell called it his ‘crowning victory’. Now Parliament had full control of the country. The man who could take Drogheda could take hell Sir Arthur Aston, Royalist commander of Drogheda 1653 Toppled any weakness Illustration of Oliver Cromwell ejecting the rump of the Long Parliament from the House of Commons. After the fighting had ended, Cromwell turned his attention to replacing an English government he thought had become corrupt. He found a ‘Rump Parliament’ of MPs, who appeared determined to extend their rule indefinitely. Cromwell harangued them on the floor of the House of Commons for being self-serving and then his troops forcibly shut down Parliament. He replaced it with ‘the assembly of saints’, a nominated group of men he considered suitably puritan.

But, when they too proved unsatisfactory, he had them removed as well. 1658 Cromwell's legacy The statue of Oliver Cromwell outside the Houses of Parliament. Cromwell died on September 3 of natural causes. An event still commemorated by the Cromwell Association. His son Richard inherited the title of Lord Protector, but he could not control the army. So in 1660 Charles I’s son was restored to the throne. When Charles II became King the British celebrated the end of Cromwell’s rule with arguably the biggest booze-up the country has ever seen. However the Restoration Settlement did not give back to the King financial control over the government and military. It was the start of the road to parliamentary democracy. This was Cromwell’s greatest legacy, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breed Information Tendency toward a tolerance for cats and a lower prey drive. 3 stars Child Friendly Dogs that tend to be more sturdy, playful and easygoing around children and more tolerant of children's behavior. 3 stars Tendency to enjoy or tolerate other dogs. 5 stars Level of daily activity needed. 3 stars Amount of bathing, brushing, even professional grooming needed. 3 stars Level of health issues a breed tends to have.

4 stars A dog's thinking and problem-solving ability (not trainability). 4 stars How lighthearted and spirited a dog tends to be. 3 stars Amount and frequency of dog hair shedding. 3 stars Preferred amount of interaction with other pets and humans. 5 stars Tendency to be welcoming to new people. 5 stars A dog's inclination to be protective of his home, yard or even car. 2 stars Level of ease in learning something new and a willingness to try new things. 4 stars A breed that is likely to alert you to the presence of strangers. 2 stars Overview Did You Know? “Sex and the City’s” Charlotte York had a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Elizabeth Taylor. Real-life celebrities Claire Danes, Teri Hatcher, Mischa Barton, Diane Sawyer, and Jerry O’Connell are Cavalier owners. This sturdy toy breed is a re-creation of the toy spaniels that populated royal courts and noble homes in Europe from the 15th to the 19th centuries. True to their heritage as “comforter dogs,” Cavaliers love to be in a lap. The typical Cavalier is always happy, trusting and easygoing, a friend to everyone he meets.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel today is a beloved, and increasingly popular, companion dog. He's small, loving, playful and attractive. A Cavalier will dog your footsteps throughout the day, from kitchen to bathroom to home office and back again and prefers not to be left alone for hours on end. The ideal home is one with a stay-at-home parent, work-at-home spouse or retired couple. A Cavalier’s natural animation and cheerfulness stand out in the show ring. He can be a steady and willing competitor in obedience and rally, and excels in agility and flyball. His intuitive nature also makes him a superb therapy dog. He will sit quietly with older people or young children and then turn into a rowdy playmate with active children or adults. These dogs generally love kids and do well in families with older children who will throw a ball for them, teach them tricks or just hang out with them. Because of their small size, though, Cavaliers must be protected from clumsy toddlers who might fall on them or “pet” them with too much force. Cavalier temperament ranges from sweet and placid to hard-charging and, yes, stubborn.

The sweet, placid Cavaliers sometimes have a reputation for being dumb, and the stubborn ones for being untrainable, but in general, these dogs are smart and learn quickly. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, especially when food rewards are offered, but harsh words will cause them to stop trying or even to hide. Toy breeds such as Cavaliers are sometimes difficult to housetrain, mainly because people don’t put enough effort into it. If you take a Cavalier puppy out on a regular schedule, reward him for pottying outdoors and limit his freedom in the home until he’s reliable, there is no reason he can’t be housetrained as well as any other breed. At his best, the Cavalier is an adaptable, flexible, hardy little dog. He’s happy to loll around on the sofa with you all day but ready for action when it’s offered. Although he’s classified as a toy breed, the Cavalier is at the larger end of the size scale, weighing 13 to 18 pounds.

He often has the same “birdy” nature as his larger spaniel cousins, making him a good choice for people who want a dog who’s not too big but still capable of going for hikes, chasing seagulls at the beach or even retrieving quail, given the training and opportunity. He will also “hunt” butterflies and bugs and loves playing fetch with a ball or stuffed toy. Always walk the Cavalier on a leash. When he sees a bird or other potential prey, everything else goes out of his head. All too often Cavaliers are hit by cars and killed when they chase a bird or ball -- right into the street. It should go without saying that the Cavalier is not meant to live outdoors. He’s a family dog who needs to be with his people and protected from excessive heat and cold. Other Quick Facts Cavaliers have a silky, medium-length coat with feathering on the ears, legs, chest, feet and tail. They shed moderately.

The Cavalier coat comes in four colors: Blenheim (chestnut and white), tricolor (black and white with tan points over the eyes, on the cheeks, inside the ears and beneath the tail), ruby (solid red) and black and tan (black with tan points like those on the tricolor). Cavaliers can get along with cats when they are raised with them, but some have a strong prey drive and will chase cats . Pet birds should also watch their tailfeathers around Cavaliers. If the video doesn't start playing momentarily, History The History of Cavaliers Small spaniels have been popular companion dogs for hundreds of years. They were found in royal courts and noble homes in Spain (where the spaniel gets his name), France, England and Scotland and were often prominently featured in their owners’ portraits. The Scottish Stuarts were especially fond of the little dogs. Mary, Queen of Scots had a toy spaniel by her side when she was executed, as did her descendant, England’s King Charles I. It was Charles and his son Charles II who lent their name to the dogs that eventually became known as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

The toy spaniels’ popularity began to wane after a new king, William, replaced James II (also a Stuart) on England’s throne. William was from Holland, and he favored Pugs . People began crossing the Pugs and spaniels, and eventually their look changed, becoming more flat-faced with a domed head. Dogs like the ones seen in old portraits practically disappeared, except for a few lines here and there, like the ones kept by the Churchill family at Blenheim Palace. The dogs might have faded into the past except for one Roswell Eldridge, a wealthy American who offered a prize to anyone who could produce a dog like the ones he had seen in 17 th and 18 th century paintings. British breeders took up the challenge and rebuilt the breed, working with long-nosed English Toy Spaniels (called King Charles Spaniels in England). The first of the “new” spaniels was exhibited in 1928 at Crufts Dog Show. Alas, Eldridge did not live long enough to see him, but his estate paid the prize.

Since then, the Cavalier has evolved to what he is today: a sturdy and highly popular companion, combining bird-dog nosiness and Toy-dog affection for people. The Cavalier ranks 23 rd among the breeds registered by the American Kennel Club, up from 54 th in 2000. That’s one of the largest leaps in popularity in the past decade. Personality Cavalier Temperament and Personality The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is small, loving and playful. The typical Cavalier is always happy, trusting and easygoing, a friend to everyone he meets. True to their heritage as “comforter dogs,” Cavaliers love to be in a lap. Cavalier temperament ranges from sweet and placid to hard-charging and even stubborn. The sweet, placid Cavaliers sometimes have a reputation for being dumb, and the stubborn ones for being untrainable, but in general, these dogs are smart and learn quickly. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, especially when food rewards are offered, but harsh words will cause them to stop trying or even to hide. A Cavalier should usually never be shy or aggressive to people or other dogs. Cavaliers live to be with their people.

The ideal home is one with a stay-at-home parent, work-at-home spouse or retired couple. The dogs generally love kids and do well in families with older children who will throw a ball for them, teach them tricks or just hang out with them. Because of their small size, though, Cavaliers must be protected from clumsy toddlers who might fall on them or “pet” them with too much force. A few things to know about Cavaliers: they love to lick, they love to chase moving objects (especially feathered ones) and they can be manipulative when they want food (those eyes!). It’s difficult or impossible to curb these behaviors so you need to find a way to work around them, such as always keeping the dog on leash in areas with traffic and hardening your heart when your Cavalier wants to share your French fries. The Cavalier is not perfect. Any dog, no matter how nice, can develop obnoxious levels of barking, digging and other undesirable behaviors if he is bored, untrained or unsupervised. Start training your puppy the day you bring him home. Even at eight weeks old, he is capable of soaking up everything you can teach him.

Don’t wait until he is 6 months old to begin training or you will have a more headstrong dog to deal with. If possible, get him into puppy kindergarten class by the time he is 10 to 12 weeks old, and socialize, socialize, socialize. However, be aware that many puppy training classes require certain vaccines (like kennel cough) to be up to date, and many veterinarians recommend limited exposure to other dogs and public places until puppy vaccines (including rabies, distemper and parvovirus ) have been completed. In lieu of formal training, you can begin training your puppy at home and socializing him among family and friends until puppy vaccines are completed. Talk to the breeder, describe exactly what you’re looking for in a dog, and ask for assistance in selecting a puppy. Breeders see the puppies daily and can make uncannily accurate recommendations once they know something about your lifestyle and personality. The perfect Cavalier doesn’t spring fully formed from the whelping box. He’s a product of his background and breeding. Whatever you want from a Cavalier, look for one whose parents have nice personalities and who has been well socialized from early puppyhood.

Health What You Need to Know About Cavalier Health All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems, just as all people have the potential to inherit a particular disease. Run, don’t walk, from any breeder who does not offer a health guarantee on puppies, who tells you that the breed is 100 percent healthy and has no known problems, or who tells you that her puppies are isolated from the main part of the household for health reasons. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur in her lines. The Cavalier can develop certain health problems . They include a heart condition called mitral valve disease, a neurological problem called syringomyelia, patellar (knee) luxation, certain eye problems such as cataracts and keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or dry eye, an ear condition called primary secretory otitis media, allergies and other skin problems. Most of these conditions are suspected to be hereditary. First things first: Not every Cavalier will get all or even any of these diseases. It’s not unusual for Cavaliers to live 10 to 12 years, and some live to be 15 or older.

Now, that said, there’s no denying that the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is at risk of a large number of genetic health problems. Some die in what should be the prime of their life. Here’s a brief rundown on what you should know. Mitral valve disease is the most common acquired heart disorder in dogs. It’s a defect of the mitral valve, located between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart. The valve gradually thickens and degenerates, eventually becoming leaky. That forces the heart to work harder to pump blood out and it becomes enlarged. Lots of dogs get MVD in their senior years, but in Cavaliers it can strike at an early age. A heart murmur is the first sign of MVD. Cavaliers with a murmur may go on for years without any problem or need for medication, or they can develop congestive heart failure, which can often be controlled for a time with medication. Syringomyelia is a nervous system disorder. It results from a congenital bone deformity in which the rear part of the skull is too small. The cerebellum and the brainstem are crowded and obstruct the foramen magnum, the opening at the bottom of the skull.

When this happens, the flow of cerebrospinal fluid is obstructed, resulting in the formation of fluid-filled cavities in the spinal cord. The damage can cause pain. Signs include scratching at the neck and sensitivity in the area of the head and neck. The dogs often yelp or scream for no apparent reason, may hold their head in a certain position much of the time, or develop a wobbly walk. Syringomyelia can be mild, requiring no action; managed with pain medication; corrected with surgery; or so severe that the dog must be euthanized. Many toy breeds and small dogs, the Cavalier included, have a condition known as luxating patella, in which one or both kneecaps are unstable and occasionally, or in more severe cases, always slip out of place. Depending on the level of severity (1 being mild and 4 being severe), luxating patellas can be a minor issue that cause the dog little problem or pain or serious enough to require surgical correction. Primary secretory otitis media, also known as glue ear, occurs when a mucus plug forms within the middle ear cavity of one or both ears.

Signs include head or neck pain, holding the neck carefully, tilting the head, scratching at the ears and hearing loss. Often PSOM is mistaken for syringomyelia or hereditary deafness. It is usually diagnosed with an MRI or CT scan and treated by surgically removing the mucus plug and then flushing the ear, followed by a course of antibiotics and/or corticosteroids. Eye problems that may affect the breed include juvenile cataracts and dry eye. Dry eye is most common in senior dogs. Not all of these conditions are detectable in a growing puppy, and it is impossible to predict whether an animal will be free of these maladies, which is why you must find a reputable breeder who is committed to breeding the healthiest animals possible. They should be able to produce independent certification that the parents of the dog (and grandparents, etc.) have been screened for common defects and deemed healthy for breeding. That’s where health registries come in.

In the hope of controlling the genetic diseases that already affect the breed and preventing any new ones from emerging, the American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club, which is the American Kennel Club parent organization for the breed in the United States, participates in a program operated by the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC). Cavalier breeders who want CHIC certification must test breeding dogs for eye disease, patellar (knee) luxation, hip dysplasia and heart disease and agree to have test results, positive or negative, published in the CHIC database. A dog need not receive good or even passing scores on the evaluations to obtain a CHIC number, so CHIC registration alone is not proof of soundness or absence of disease, but all test results are posted on the CHIC website and can be accessed by anyone who wants to check the health of a puppy’s parents. Breeders must agree to have all test results, positive or negative, published in the CHIC database.

A dog need not receive good or even passing scores on the evaluations to obtain a CHIC number, so CHIC registration alone is not proof of soundness or absence of disease, but all test results are posted on the CHIC website and can be accessed by anyone who wants to check the health of a puppy’s parents. If the breeder tells you she doesn't need to do those tests because she's never had problems in her lines and her dogs have been "vet checked," then you should go find a breeder who is more rigorous about genetic testing. Careful breeders screen their breeding dogs for genetic disease and breed only the healthiest and best-looking specimens, but sometimes Mother Nature has other ideas and a puppy develops one of these diseases despite good breeding practices. Advances in veterinary medicine mean that in most cases the dogs can still live a good life. If you’re getting a puppy, ask the breeder about the ages of the dogs in her lines and what they died of. Remember that after you’ve taken a new puppy into your home, you have the power to protect him from one of the most common health problems: obesity. Keeping a Cavalier at an appropriate weight is one of the easiest ways to extend his life.

Make the most of your preventive abilities to help ensure a healthier dog for life. Grooming The Basics of Cavalier Grooming For a coated breed, the Cavalier is relatively easy to groom. The medium-length silky coat is not so heavy that it requires hours of brushing, and it sheds dirt easily. The Cavalier sheds, like all dogs, but regular brushing will remove dead hairs so they don’t float off onto your floor, furniture and clothing. The long, silky hair on the Cavalier’s ears, tail, belly and legs, known as feathering, should be brushed two or three times a week to prevent mats or tangles from forming. Be sure to check behind the ears and where the leg meets the body; that’s where they commonly form. Use a slicker brush or stainless steel comb to remove tangles, then bring out shine with a bristle brush. The coat does not require any trimming for the show ring; indeed, such trimming is prohibited by the breed standard. A bath every two to four weeks will keep the Cavalier smelling sweet. The only other grooming needed is regular ear cleaning, tooth brushing and nail trimming.

Finding Finding a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Whether you want to go with a breeder or get your dog from a shelter or rescue, here are some things to keep in mind. Choosing a Cavalier Breeder Finding a good breeder is the key to finding the right puppy. A good breeder will match you with the right puppy, and will without question have done all the health certifications necessary to screen out health problems as much as is possible. He or she is more interested in placing pups in the right homes than in making big bucks. Good breeders will welcome your questions about temperament, health clearances and what the dogs are like to live with and come right back at you with questions of their own about what you’re looking for in a dog and what kind of life you can provide for him. A good breeder can tell you about the history of the breed, eXplain why one puppy is considered pet quality while another is not, and discuss what health problems affect the breed and the steps she takes take to avoid those problems.

Start your puppy search by finding a breeder who is a member in good standing of either the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club – USA or the American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club , and who has agreed to abide by the CKCSC's code of ethics or the ACKCSC's ethical guidelines , both of which specifically prohibit selling puppies through retail outlets such as pet stores and outline the responsibility their member breeders have to the dogs they produce and the people who purchase them. Choose a breeder who is not only willing but insists on being a resource as you train and care for your new dog throughout his life. Avoid breeders who only seem interested in how quickly they can unload a puppy on you and whether your credit card will go through. You should also bear in mind that buying a puppy from websites that offer to ship your dog to you immediately can be a risky venture, as it leaves you no recourse if what you get isn’t exactly what you expected. Put at least as much effort into researching your puppy as you would into choosing a new car or expensive appliance. It will save you money in the long run. Many reputable breeders have websites, so how can you tell who’s good and who’s not?

Red flags include puppies always being available, multiple litters on the premises, having your choice of any puppy, and the ability to pay online with a credit card. Those things are convenient, but they are almost never associated with reputable breeders. Whether you’re planning to get your new best friend from a breeder, a pet store, or another source, don’t forget that old adage “let the buyer beware”. Disreputable breeders and facilities that deal with puppy mills can be hard to distinguish from reliable operations. There’s no 100% guaranteed way to make sure you’ll never purchase a sick puppy, but researching the breed (so you know what to expect), checking out the facility (to identify unhealthy conditions or sick animals), and asking the right questions can reduce the chances of heading into a disastrous situation. And don’t forget to ask your veterinarian, who can often refer you to a reputable breeder, breed rescue organization, or other reliable source for healthy puppies. The cost of a Cavalier puppy varies depending on his place of origin, whether he is male or female, what titles his parents have, and whether he is best suited for the show ring or a pet home.

Expect to pay between $2,000 and $3,000 for one of these popular pups. For that price, the puppy you buy should have been raised in a clean home environment, from parents with health clearances and conformation (show) titles to prove that they are good specimens of the breed. Puppies should be temperament tested, vetted, dewormed, and socialized to give them a healthy, confident start in life. Before you decide to buy a puppy, consider whether an adult Cavalier might better suit your needs and lifestyle. Puppies are loads of fun, but they require a lot of time and effort before they grow up to become the dog of your dreams. An adult Cavalier may already have some training and will probably be less active, destructive and demanding than a puppy. With an adult, you know more about what you’re getting in terms of personality and health and you can find adults through breeders or shelters. If you are interested in acquiring an older dog through breeders, ask them about purchasing a retired show dog or if they know of an adult dog who needs a new home. If you want to adopt a dog, read the advice below on how to do that.

Adopting a Dog from a Cavalier Rescue or Shelter There are many great options available if you want to adopt a dog from an animal shelter or breed rescue organization. Here is how to get started. 1. Use the Web Sites like Petfinder.com and Adopt-a-Pet.com can have you searching for a Cavalier in your area in no time flat. The site allows you to be very specific in your requests (housetraining status, for example) or very general (all the Cavaliers available on Petfinder across the country). AnimalShelter.org can help you find animal rescue groups in your area. Also some local newspapers have “pets looking for homes” sections you can review. Social media is another great way to find a dog. Post on your Facebook page that you are looking for a specific breed so that your entire community can be your eyes and ears. 2. Reach Out to Local Experts Start talking with all the pet pros in your area about your desire for a Cavalier. That includes vets, dog walkers, and groomers. When someone has to make the tough decision to give up a dog, that person will often ask her own trusted network for recommendations. 3.

Talk to Breed Rescue Networking can help you find a dog that may be the perfect companion for your family. You can also search online for other Cavalier rescues in your area. Most people who love Cavaliers love all Cavaliers. That’s why breed clubs have rescue organizations devoted to taking care of homeless dogs. The American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club's Rescue Network can help you find a dog that may be the perfect companion for your family. You can also search online for other Cavalier rescues in your area. The great thing about breed rescue groups is that they tend to be very upfront about any health conditions the dogs may have and are a valuable resource for advice. They also often offer fostering opportunities so, with training, you could bring a Cavalier home with you to see what the experience is like. 4. Key Questions to Ask You now know the things to discuss with a breeder, but there are also questions you should discuss with shelter or rescue group staff or volunteers before you bring home a pup. These include: What is his energy level? How is he around other animals? How does he respond to shelter workers, visitors and children? What is his personality like? What is his age?

Cavaliers: The English Civil War Doublet or Buff Coat The English Civil War Perhaps there has never been a time in history where there hasn't been some conflict between the concept of a monarchy versus the concept of a republic. England has certainly been no exception to that rule. In England, the most explosive example of this conflict took place in the 17th century - and a war that tore the country in half: The English Civil War. So it is here that we find the most literal examples of the name Cavalier. Put simply, Cavaliers were the supporters of Charles I and the monarch (supporters were also known as Loyalists). Opposing the Cavaliers were the Parliamentarians, or 'roundheads' Charles I From the time Charles I became king in 1625, numerous power struggles ensued. For 11 years, Charles I had ruled alone (after dissolving Parliament). He hardly created many friends when he married a Catholic Princess and increased taxes on his people to support unwanted wars. When he later recalled Parliament in 1640, he requested money to put down a rebellion in Scotland. When he didn't get the response he wanted, he had five of his opponents arrested. This triggered the first civil war.

Sympathizers with the monarchy were called Royalists, or Cavaliers (imagine that). Those against the Royalists were the Puritans, or "Roundheads." The first civil war started in 1642 and ended in 1646. Despite Charles I's initial advantage, in the end, Parliament had the money to maintain a professional army and therefore prevailed. Charles I was imprisoned in 1645 from where he would plan a second attack with the help of the Scottish. This second civil war led to a decisive defeat for the Royalists and Charles I was executed in 1649 for treason. Charles I accepted his penalty with dignity and this would later help to restore his son to the throne. For a short time Oliver Cromwell, a Puritan, emerged to try to manage the disorganized and ineffective Parliament. Cromwell had recruited and trained in the Parliament's New Model Army. During this time he ruled as what was to be called the "Lord Protector." Unfortunately for Cromwell, he didn't have any further control over Parliament than did his ill-fated predecessor. Cromwell was forced to rule through his generals rather than Parliament.

When he died in 1658, his ineffectual son took over as ruler. Within 2 years, England and Parliament wanted the monarchy back. And so opened the door for the exiled Charles II. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club - USA - Passion of King Charles II for His Cavalier AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, NV, MT, NM, OR, UT, WA, WY The Lifetime Passion of King Charles II for His Cavalier King Charles Spaniels The little spaniel that was to become known as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was popular with English royalty for centuries, but it was not until King Charles I that they became an integral part of royal family life. Charles I was devoted to Cavaliers and expressed “a deep affection for the exquisite qualities of the dogs”. This charming portrait of a very young Charles II with one on his lap suggests that son might follow father in complete devotion to the breed. And indeed he did. Imagine the life of a youthful Charles: After living the life of an heir to the throne of England for eighteen years, he was sent to France for safety at the outbreak of the English civil war.

Forced to live in relative poverty in a foreign country for a number of years and traumatized by the beheading of his father, King Charles I (who had remained in England), one can only imagine how Charles’s spaniels brought comfort and solace. The dogs were his constant companions, and would have brought a sense of continuity and cheer to a young man living in exile, in tumultuous and often dangerous times. Charles was particularly fond of his older sister, Henrietta Maria, known as “Minette”, who had lived in France for many years as wife of the brother of the French king, Louis XIV. A gracious and cultured person, Minette adored her Cavaliers. It may safely be assumed the spaniels Charles had while in France were sisterly gifts to her lonely brother. After the British monarchy was restored, Charles returned to England to be crowned King Charles II. Shortly afterwards, Minette suddenly and unexpectedly died. Charles made arrangements to have all her Cavaliers transported to England, and again, one can only imagine his feelings as he held the dogs his beloved sister had treasured so much.

Minette’s spaniels joined those Charles had brought back from France, and the royal palaces rang with joyful barking and the general unruliness that go with a group of gregarious, affectionate Cavaliers. The dogs went everywhere Charles went--by the dozen; to court, council rooms, royal bedchambers and even to church. Legend reveals how Cavaliers were allowed, by Charles’s royal decree, to enter any court of law unchallenged. The fact that he “might be seen before the dew was off the grass in St. James’ Park, striding through the trees, playing with his spaniels and flinging corn to his ducks”, also endeared Charles greatly to his subjects, who referred to him affectionately as “The Merrie Monarch”. To some, however, the coddling of Charles numerous dogs became a symbol of the royal inanity, and ridicule often ensued. Samuel Pepyes roasted Charles and his court regularly in his journals, and nothing seemed to irk the man more than the King’s ubiquitous pets and the distractions they caused. “All I observed was the silliness of the King playing with his dogs all the while, and not minding his business”.

Another diarist, John Evelyn, joined the chorus of grumbles, also focusing on Charles and his companions: “The King took delight in having a number of little spaniels follow him and lie in his bedchamber, which rendered it offensive, and indeed, the whole court was nasty and stinking”. For the besieged Charles, living in a world swirling with murder and treachery, his dogs became an oasis in an ever-increasing desert of duplicity. In gratitude, they were rewarded with the kind of unrestrained pampering only a king could offer. Coiffed by the royal hairdressers and bedecked in collars of silk ribbon, precious metals or gold embroidered velvet, they had the run of all royal properties. Their diet included dove breast, venison and grain-fattened beef. While such “excesses” may have seemed decadent to some, to Charles they were simply his dogs’ birthright. Despite the showiness of Charles attention to his pets, to conclude his affection was shallow or silly would be quite wrong. A great many reports exist to this day of the deep-rooted devotion Charles had for his Cavaliers.

Even as he lay on his deathbed, he sought the comfort only they could give. The King bristled when the dogs were removed from his death-chamber, and with nearly his last breath, demanded they be returned to his side, to be with him in his final moments. Could there be a more poignant story about a man and his dogs, even though that man be a king? Reprinted Courtesy of Barbara Garnett Wilson Be Social Follow us on Twitter Follow @CKCSCUSA1954 Site Highlights Cavalier | Define Cavalier at Dictionary.com cavalier [kav-uh-leer, kav-uh-leer] /ˌkæv əˈlɪər, ˈkæv əˌlɪər/ Spell a horseman, especially a mounted soldier; knight. 2. one having the spirit or bearing of a knight; a courtly gentleman; gallant. 3. a man escorting a woman or acting as her partner in dancing. 4. (initial capital letter) an adherent of Charles I of England in his contest with Parliament. adjective an arrogant and cavalier attitude toward others. 6. The very dignified officials were confused by his cavalier manner. 7.

(initial capital letter) of or relating to the Cavaliers. 8. (initial capital letter) of, relating to, or characteristic of the Cavalier poets or their work. verb (used without object) to be haughty or domineering. Origin of cavalier Late Latin 1590-1600 1590-1600; < Middle French: horseman, knight < Old Italian cavaliere < Old Provençal < Late Latin caballārius man on horseback, equivalent to Latin caball(us) horse (cf. capercaillie ) + -ārius -ary Related forms 5. indifferent, offhand, uncaring, thoughtless, condescending. Dictionary.com Unabridged Examples from the Web for cavalier Expand Contemporary Examples Beinart is said to be cavalier about Jewish survival, his “liberalism” an opening to defeat and assimilation. Julian Assange, Chick Magnet? Tracy Quan December 12, 2010 No banker who truly understands risk should be so cavalier about it.

Jana Winter Gets Reprieve but Could Still Be Jailed Over Holmes Scoop David Freedlander April 8, 2013 Historical Examples As long as our one cavalier has been lured away from us by Delia we might as well try to console one another, laughed Marjorie. The Regent's Daughter Alexandre Dumas (Pere) Again he is a cavalier wearing his velvet mantle, and plumed hat, with the languid elegance of a gentleman of leisure. Rembrandt Estelle M. Hurll British Dictionary definitions for cavalier Expand a gallant or courtly gentleman, esp one acting as a lady's escort 3. (archaic) a horseman, esp one who is armed Derived Forms cavalierly, adverb Word Origin C16: from Italian cavaliere, from Old Provençal cavalier, from Late Latin caballārius rider, from caballus horse, of obscure origin Cavalier a supporter of Charles I during the English Civil War Compare Roundhead Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd.

1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 Word Origin and History for cavalier Expand n. 1580s, from Italian cavalliere "mounted soldier, knight; gentleman serving as a lady's escort," from Late Latin caballarius "horseman," from Vulgar Latin caballus, the common Vulgar Latin word for "horse" (and source of Italian cavallo, French cheval, Spanish caballo, Irish capall, Welsh ceffyl), displacing Latin equus (see equine ). Sense advanced in 17c. to "knight," then "courtly gentleman" (but also, pejoratively, "swaggerer"), which led to the adjectival senses, especially "disdainful" (1650s). Meaning "Royalist adherent of Charles I" is from 1641.

Meaning "one who devotes himself solely to attendance on a lady" is from 1817, roughly translating Italian cavaliere-servente. In classical Latin caballus was "work horse, pack horse," sometimes, disdainfully, "hack, nag." "Not a native Lat. word (as the second -a- would show), though the source of the borrowing is uncertain" [Tucker]. Perhaps from some Balkan or Anatolian language, and meaning, originally, "gelding." The same source is thought to have yielded Old Church Slavonic kobyla. adj. "disdainful," 1650s, from cavalier (n.). Earlier it meant "gallant" (1640s). Related: Cavalierly. Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper Slang definitions & phrases for cavalier Expand noun A skillful boxer as distinct from a slugger or caveman (1920s+ Prizefight) The Dictionary of American Slang, Fourth Edition by Barbara Ann Kipfer, PhD. and Robert L. Chapman, Ph.D. Copyright (C) 2007 by HarperCollins Publishers.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Information, Pictures of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels | Dogster What They Are Like to Live With These dogs get along with everybody—cats and other pets included. They are very good playmates for children, being patient and playful, and make a good first impression with strangers. Some can be a little reserved with new people, but they quickly warm up. For this reason, the King Charles is probably not the best choice for a watchdog. Things You Should Know Cavalier King Charles Spaniels may look like adorable lapdogs that want nothing more than a comfy couch, but they descend from a long line of hunters. Therefore, they might not be the best choice for apartment living. Give them room to run—preferably in a fenced back yard—and take them for a jaunt in the woods now and then. However, don’t forget the leash: They love to chase cars and small critters. Being people-oriented dogs, King Charles Spaniels crave companionship and attention, rewarding their owners with equal amounts of affection. Don’t ignore them or leave them alone for too long: They can get depressed, lonely and sometimes batty.

A healthy Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can live as long as 14 years. Common health problems include a heart condition called mitral valve disease, hip dysplasia and ear infections. They need daily brushing, ear cleaning and occasional grooming. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel History The original King Charles Spaniels were popular dogs during the reign of Charles II, who adored small dogs. In many17th-century paintings, these elegant canines sit on the laps of princes and princesses. Over the years, the breed evolved, creating a diversity of types that did not resemble the original. An American dog breeder named Roswell Eldridge went to England in the1920s to find several of the classic King Charles Spaniels. Finding few options, he offered a prize for the best female and male breeds shown at the annual Crufts show. This sparked a new interest in King Charles Spaniels, but they did not receive AKC recognition until 1996. The Look of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have small, well-proportioned frames with silky, wavy coats.

Their rounded heads are in proportion to their bodies with conical muzzles and dark, well-developed noses. Their pendant (hanging) ears are set high and slightly feathered. They have long necks, sloping shoulders and straight forelegs. Their wagging tails are covered in fur and are not carried too high. They come in black & tan, tri-color, red, and chestnut on white. Overall, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have an elegant and noble posture. Talk About Cavalier King Charles Spaniels So easy to train! My favorite breed is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. I would recommend this breed dog to anyone who would love a lovable, smart dog that is easy to train. These dogs are so very smart! They learn commands very quickly because they are so anxious to please their human. Their small size makes them a wonderful dog for people with children or folks in apartments. The only pitfall is that you'll want more than one...they are a joy in every way! ~Caren H., owner of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel No one is a stranger to these dogs! My favorite breed is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

The reason for this is that they are beautiful, yes, but they are such happy, sweet, loving dogs that never meet a stranger. They love life, people and other dogs of all kinds. And smart? they are VERY smart! If I knew someone considering getting a Cavalier King Charles, I would tell them it is so very important to do your homework and research the serious health problems this breed can have, then find a good, ethical breeder that follows all the protocols for breeding these terrific dogs. The only down side to having Cavaliers is that you can't take them anywhere without being mobbed like a rock-star by people wanting to pet and hold your little K9 friend. ~Veesha, owner of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel A loyal lapdog These dogs are such good friends. They are small enough to be a great lapdog, but big enough to go to my horse barn and even go on trail rides on my property. Mine also rides in my horse-drawn cart with me. I have owned several dogs, and my Cavs have been by far the most loyal. You need to be sure you have time to spend with them -- they are "people" dogs and do not do well if ignored.

They also require some grooming, as their coat will mat if not brushed. But mine goes to the barn, pond, and pasture daily and I just rinse her off and do a good brushing once a week. ~Janet B., owner of a Cavalier King Charles Spa A lap-warming spaniel that also enjoys the outdoors My Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has never met a person she doesn't like nor a person who doesn't like her. The laughing face and melting expression draw young and old alike. Loving and sweet, Cavaliers MUST be with their people and will become despondent if they are left alone too often. Small enough to serve the purpose they were bred for, lap warming, they are still a Spaniel and will enjoy the outdoors and agility as well. Prospective worshippers ... um ... owners should be aware of the possibility of heart issues and knee problems as well as a neurological problem that can occur. Check the breedlines to make sure parents are heart clear. These dogs can live good, long lives and every day with them is a joy! I couldn't be owned by any other breed.

~MaryAnne W., owner of a Cavalier King Charles Spa There is no sweeter face to win your heart Lucy is the most loving, gentle dog we have ever had. She is very smart, and a great traveler in the car. We just completed over 3,000 miles in 12 days and she did wonderfully, with breaks to stretch and relieve herself. She has done marvelously in hotels that allow dogs as well. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels need moderate brushing, but shedding is greatly reduced by the brushing, fish oil in her food three times a week, and a high-quality diet. This breed is in the toy category but is very substantial. She loves to chase and play but settles down nicely in the house. The Cav does best in an environment with adults or older children. Toddlers and young children make the dog a bit nervous since children can be so unpredictable. I love love love this breed. There is no sweeter face to win your heart. Mine is cuddled alongside me right now while I write this testimonial! ~Ginger Barthel, owner of a Cavalier King Charles Spa Amazing dogs I love these dogs. I own two, and they get along incredibly well.

They have their distinct personalities, so there is an interesting dynamic to their relationship. They tend to stick together all day long, and usually sleep in the same room. These are some of the most amazing dogs I've ever met, and when I leave home for more than a few days I miss them terribly. They're incredibly loyal, and very sensitive to their owners' emotions. When someone in the house is upset, they come running to cuddle! They're not only amazingly adorable, they're also quite smart. We taught our first dog several things, which he learned quickly. We never had to train our second dog; she picked up the behaviors and responses to commands straight from our first one! ~Laura S., owner of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels These are great dogs! I have a Cavalier, Cricket, and she's a joy. Active, but not too much and always eager to please. She has very soft fur and loves to snuggle. I can count on one hand how many times I've heard Cricket bark. Almost perfect - but I hate how she always gets into things that tangle in her hair.

~Suzie R, owner of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Search Breeds Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Personality Chart (based on 2,876 Cavalier King Charles Spaniel profiles)

Question: In British history a Cavalier was a supporter of which king?
Answer: Charles I