The Battle of Sedgemoor ended the Monmouth Rebellion and was the last pitched battle fought on English soil.
Key Facts
- Date
- 6 July 1685
- Location
- Westonzoyland, near Bridgwater, Somerset
- Prisoners taken
- approximately 500
- Monmouth's fate
- Captured and executed nine days after the battle
- Post-battle trials
- Bloody Assizes; many executed or transported abroad
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
The Duke of Monmouth, an illegitimate son of Charles II, launched a rebellion against King James II in 1685, seeking to claim the English throne. After landing in Dorset, he gathered rebel forces and fought a series of skirmishes across south-west England, ultimately deciding to risk a decisive night attack on the royal army camped near Bridgwater in Somerset.
On 6 July 1685, rebel forces under the Duke of Monmouth attempted a surprise night assault on James II's army at Westonzoyland near Bridgwater. The attack failed, and the well-organised royal forces routed the rebels in close combat. Approximately 500 rebels were taken prisoner, while the Duke of Monmouth fled the battlefield.
Monmouth was captured shortly after fleeing and taken to London, where he was executed nine days after the battle. His supporters faced the Bloody Assizes, presided over by Judge Jeffreys, during which many were hanged, drawn, and quartered, while others were transported abroad. The rebellion's swift suppression consolidated James II's hold on the throne.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
King James II (overall).
Side B
1 belligerent
Duke of Monmouth.