2-650-957 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

'Execution of the Earl of Strafford', c1641, (1903). Thomas Wentworth, 1st Earl of Strafford (1593-1641) was Lord Deputy of Ireland from 1632 until 1639, establishing a strong authoritarian rule. Recalled to England, he became a leading advisor to King Charles I, attempting to strengthen the royal position against Parliament. When Parliament condemned him to death, Charles signed the death warrant and Wentworth was executed. From Social England, Volume IV, edited by H.D. Traill, D.C.L. and J. S. Mann, M.A. [Cassell and Company, Limited, London, Paris, New York & Melbourne, 1903]