# Roundheads a term applied to the English Puritans who were adherents of the Parliamentary Party during the English Civil War (1642-1651) and after. They fought to overthrow the King of England, his supporters (the Royalists) and the Roman Catholic Church, which the Puritans were attempting to "purify." They were called Roundheads because they wore their hair cut short, while that of their opposition (the Royalists) was worn long, covering their shoulders. See also Puritan in this glossary.