John Poyer, the Civil Wars in Pembrokeshire and the British Revolutions

A new book explores the life and career of John Poyer, a key figure in the Second Civil War in south Wales. It argues that he was a more complex and significant individual than previously realized, and his involvement in post-war politics offers insights into the relationship between national and local politics, the use of print and publicity by provincial interest groups, and the importance of local factionalism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2020
Publisher: University of Wales Press

This is the first book-length treatment of the 'turncoat John Poyer, the man who initiated the Second Civil War through his rebellion in south Wales in 1648. The volume charts Poyer's rise from a humble glover in Pembroke to become Parliament's most significant supporter in Wales during the First Civil War (1642–6), and argues that he was a more complex and significant individual than most commentators have realized. Poyer's involvement in the poisonous factional politics of the post-war period (1646–8) is examined, and newly discovered material demonstrates how his career offers fresh insights into the relationship between national and local politics in the 1640s, the use of print and publicity by provincial interest groups, and the importance of local factionalism in understanding the course of the civil war in south Wales. The volume also offers a substantial analysis of Poyer's posthumous reputation after his execution by firing squad in April 1649.

The book delves into the life and career of John Poyer, a prominent figure in the tumultuous period of the English Civil Wars. Born in Pembroke, Wales, in 1610, Poyer began his career as a humble glover but quickly rose to prominence as a supporter of Parliament during the First Civil War (1642-166). His involvement in the war led to his appointment as the governor of the castle of Carmarthen in 1646, a position that gave him a significant influence over the region.

However, Poyer's career took a turn for the worse when he sided with the Royalists during the Second Civil War (1648-1649). His rebellion in south Wales, which was ultimately unsuccessful, led to his capture and execution by firing squad in April 1649. Despite his controversial legacy, the book argues that Poyer was a more complex and significant individual than most commentators have realized.

The volume charts Poyer's rise from a humble glover in Pembroke to become Parliament's most significant supporter in Wales during the First Civil War. It explores his involvement in the poisonous factional politics of the post-war period, which was marked by intense rivalry between different interest groups and political factions. Poyer's career offers valuable insights into the relationship between national and local politics in the 1640s, as he played a key role in shaping the political landscape of Wales.

Furthermore, the book sheds light on the use of print and publicity by provincial interest groups during this period. Poyer, as a prominent figure, was a target for propaganda and misinformation, and the book examines how he and his supporters used print and publicity to promote their cause and undermine their opponents.

The importance of local factionalism in understanding the course of the civil war in south Wales is also emphasized in the book. Poyer's rebellion was influenced by the local political dynamics of the region, and the book explores how these dynamics shaped the course of the war and ultimately led to Poyer's downfall.

In conclusion, the book provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the life and career of John Poyer, a controversial figure who played a significant role in the English Civil Wars. It offers valuable insights into the relationship between national and local politics, the use of print and publicity by provincial interest groups, and the importance of local factionalism in understanding the course of the civil war in south Wales.

Weight: 370g
Dimension: 138 x 216 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786836540