Oliver Cromwell

Oliver Cromwell House Ely

Elizabeth Bourchier Cromwell

Charles Landseer Cromwell Battle of Naseby

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Coat of Arms of the Commonwealth of England

Oliver Cromwell by Robert Walker

Oliver Cromwell (25 April 1599 – 3 September 1658) was an English military leader and politician who played a leading role in the English Civil War. He served as Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1653 until his death, effectively ruling as a dictator.

Early Life

Oliver Cromwell was born in Huntingdon to Robert Cromwell and Elizabeth Steward. He was descended from the sister of King Henry VIII's minister Thomas Cromwell. Educated at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge, Cromwell later became a Puritan, adopting a strict moral code.

Role in the English Civil War

Cromwell emerged as a prominent figure during the English Civil War, which was fought between the Royalists, loyal to King Charles I, and the Parliamentarians, who sought a parliamentary monarchy. He was a talented cavalry commander and played a key role in the creation of the New Model Army, which was instrumental in the defeat of the Royalists.

Lord Protector

After the execution of Charles I in 1649, the monarchy was abolished, and the Commonwealth was established. Cromwell eventually became Lord Protector, a position that granted him powers akin to those of a monarch. His rule was marked by the implementation of Puritan reforms, military campaigns in Ireland and Scotland, and efforts to promote a union between the nations of the British Isles.

Death and Legacy

Cromwell died in 1658 and was succeeded by his son, Richard Cromwell. However, Richard's rule was short-lived, and the monarchy was restored in 1660 with the coronation of Charles II. Oliver Cromwell's body was exhumed and posthumously executed as a regicide.

Cromwell's legacy is complex; he is seen as a champion of liberty by some and a tyrant by others. His establishment of the Commonwealth and his role as Lord Protector are significant events in British history, reflecting the enduring conflict between monarchy and democracy.

See Also

• English Civil War
• Commonwealth of England
• Puritanism
• Regicide

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