In May 1644, Bolton, a vital town in Lancashire, became the focal point of conflict during the English Civil War as Royalist forces sought to regain control over key territories held by Parliamentarians. Under the command of James Stanley, 7th Earl of Derby, Royalist troops launched an aggressive assault on the town following a successful siege. Prior to the massacre, Bolton had fortified itself against Royalist advances and was seen as a stronghold for Parliamentarian support in the north. The siege began with heavy shelling and skirmishes, contributing to the town's vulnerability. The Royalists, eager to reclaim their lost influence in the region and reinforce their ranks, broke into the town on this fateful day. The ensuing chaos led to the indiscriminate killing of soldiers and civilians alike, resulting in a significant loss of life. The reported casualties have varied, but estimates suggest that around 1,600 individuals perished in the massacre. This event highlighted the severe brutality of the conflict as the war intensified, showcasing the increasing desperation of Royalist forces. The aftermath of the Bolton Massacre reverberated throughout the area, shattering any remnants of trust towards the Royalists and igniting further resistance among Parliamentarian supporters in Lancashire.