40 Facts About Cromwell

Early Life of Oliver Cromwell

Oliver Cromwell, a significant figure in British history, led a life filled with intriguing events and accomplishments. Let's explore some fascinating facts about his early years.

1. 01Born on April 25, 1599, in Huntingdon, England, Cromwell came from a family of minor gentry.
2. 02Cromwell attended Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge, but left without a degree.
3. 03He married Elizabeth Bourchier in 1620, and they had nine children together.
4. 04Cromwell experienced a religious conversion in the 1630s, becoming a devout Puritan.
5. 05Before his political career, Cromwell worked as a farmer and a minor local official.

Cromwell's Rise to Power

Cromwell's journey to becoming a key political and military leader was marked by several pivotal moments.

6. 06Elected to Parliament in 1628, Cromwell initially had a modest political role.
7. 07During the English Civil War, Cromwell emerged as a skilled military commander.
8. 08Cromwell formed the New Model Army in 1645, which played a crucial role in defeating Royalist forces.
9. 09He became a prominent leader in the Parliamentarian cause, advocating for the trial and execution of King Charles I.
10. 10In 1653, Cromwell dissolved the Rump Parliament and became Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland.

Military Achievements

Cromwell's military prowess was instrumental in shaping the outcome of the English Civil War and the future of Britain.

11. 11Cromwell's first major victory came at the Battle of Marston Moor in 1644.
12. 12He played a key role in the decisive Battle of Naseby in 1645.
13. 13Cromwell's forces captured Bristol, a significant Royalist stronghold, in 1645.
14. 14His leadership in the Battle of Preston in 1648 crushed the Royalist resurgence.
15. 15Cromwell's campaigns in Ireland and Scotland extended his influence and solidified his power.

Political Reforms and Policies

As Lord Protector, Cromwell implemented various reforms and policies that had lasting impacts on British society.

16. 16Cromwell promoted religious tolerance for Protestant sects, though he was harsh on Catholics.
17. 17He reformed the legal system, emphasizing the need for a more efficient and just judiciary.
18. 18Cromwell's government introduced the Instrument of Government, the first written constitution in England.
19. 19He sought to reduce corruption and improve the administration of government.
20. 20Cromwell's policies aimed to promote trade and strengthen the economy.

Personal Traits and Beliefs

Cromwell's personality and beliefs played a significant role in shaping his actions and decisions.

21. 21Known for his stern and disciplined demeanor, Cromwell was deeply religious.
22. 22He believed in the concept of "Providence," seeing his successes as signs of divine favor.
23. 23Cromwell was a strong advocate for the rights of common people and sought to limit the power of the monarchy.
24. 24Despite his authoritarian rule, Cromwell valued the principles of republicanism.
25. 25He was known for his modest lifestyle, avoiding the trappings of wealth and power.

Controversial Actions

Cromwell's tenure as Lord Protector was marked by several controversial actions that continue to spark debate.

26. 26His role in the execution of King Charles I remains one of the most contentious aspects of his legacy.
27. 27Cromwell's harsh military campaigns in Ireland, particularly the Siege of Drogheda, are often criticized for their brutality.
28. 28He dissolved the Rump Parliament in 1653, leading to accusations of dictatorial behavior.
29. 29Cromwell's rule saw the suppression of various political and religious groups, including the Levellers and Diggers.
30. 30His decision to accept the title of Lord Protector, effectively becoming a monarch in all but name, drew criticism from republicans.

Legacy and Impact

Cromwell's legacy is complex, with both positive and negative aspects that continue to influence British history.

31. 31Cromwell's leadership during the English Civil War helped establish the precedent for parliamentary sovereignty.
32. 32His reforms laid the groundwork for the modern British legal and administrative systems.
33. 33Cromwell's promotion of religious tolerance for Protestant sects influenced future policies on religious freedom.
34. 34His military campaigns in Ireland and Scotland had long-lasting effects on the relationship between these nations and England.
35. 35Cromwell's rule demonstrated the potential for a non-monarchical form of government in Britain.

Death and Posthumous Reputation

Cromwell's death and the events that followed further complicated his legacy.

36. 36Cromwell died on September 3, 1658, likely from septicemia following a urinary infection.
37. 37His son, Richard Cromwell, succeeded him as Lord Protector but lacked his father's leadership skills.
38. 38The monarchy was restored in 1660, and King Charles II ordered Cromwell's body to be exhumed and posthumously executed.
39. 39Cromwell's head was displayed on a spike outside Westminster Hall for over 20 years.
40. 40Today, Cromwell remains a polarizing figure, admired by some for his leadership and reforms, while others condemn his authoritarian rule and military actions.

Cromwell's Legacy in a Nutshell

Cromwell's life was a whirlwind of military victories, political maneuvers, and religious fervor. His rise from a modest background to becoming Lord Protector of England is nothing short of remarkable. Despite his controversial actions, like the dissolution of the Rump Parliament and his harsh policies in Ireland, Cromwell's impact on British history is undeniable. He played a pivotal role in the execution of King Charles I, which forever changed the monarchy. His military reforms and leadership in the New Model Army set new standards. Love him or hate him, Cromwell's legacy continues to spark debate and intrigue. His life story is a testament to the complexity of power and the enduring struggle for political and religious ideals. Understanding Cromwell helps us grasp the turbulent times he lived in and the lasting effects on modern Britain.