William Laud was an English churchman and archbishop of Canterbury during the early 17th century. He was known for his efforts to reform the Church of England and promote a more ceremonial style of worship. His policies aimed to strengthen the authority of the church and align it more closely with High Church traditions. Laud's tenure was marked by conflict with Puritans, who opposed his reforms. His strict enforcement of religious uniformity led to widespread dissent, contributing to the tensions that eventually sparked the English Civil War. He was executed in 1645, reflecting the turbulent religious and political climate of his time.