Oliver Cromwell

Oliver Cromwell was Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland. He rose to prominence as a military commander during the English Civil War, winning a series of impressive victories with his New Model Army. Cromwell was a political pragmatist and a skilled communicator, which facilitated his rise to power during the Commonwealth and the Protectorate. He eventually became something of a dictator, controlling Parliament and getting rid of anyone who dared to challenge him. In just 50 minutes, you will find out how he was able to assume leadership of England in the absence of a monarch and learn about the considerable legacy he left.

This straightforward and informative book provides a thorough discussion of the key moments in Cromwell’s turbulent political career, including his victory at the Battle of Marston Moor, his legitimization of his power and his brutal subjugation of Ireland and Scotland. It also features a full biography, a valuable introduction to the political, social and economic context and an evaluation of the impact of Cromwell’s rule, giving you all the essential information about this controversial military and political leader.

About Oliver Cromwell

Oliver Cromwell was a very mysterious, enigmatic figure who has been viewed in drastically different ways over the centuries. He managed to rise through the ranks of the revolutionary army thanks to his pragmatism and was known for attributing all of his military victories to the will of God. Considering the fact that he claimed he had been divinely chosen, yet considered to be a regicidal dictator, it is not surprising that Cromwell is viewed as one of the most controversial figures in British history.

This clear and accessible 46-page book is structured as follows:

• Introduction to Oliver Cromwell
• Biography of Oliver Cromwell
  • Between fortune and misfortune
  • Lord Protector of the Commonwealth
• Political, social and economic context
  • The king and the Parliament
  • Anglicanism: an original synthesis of Catholicism and Calvinism
  • The unsuccessful reign of Charles I
• Highlights
  • The Civil War
  • The Commonwealth and the Protectorate
• Impact of Cromwell’s rule
  • The consolidation of the foundations of the British colonial empire
  • The restoration of the traditional monarchy
  • Cromwell’s legacy
• Summary