Puritan Rule Under Cromwell

The execution of Charles I led to the Puritans ruling England, Oliver Cromwell conquering Ireland, and Protestant Scotland being ruled from London. The Commonwealthsmen failed due to divergent aims, an inability to organize, and taxation. Revolution was easy to make but hard to settle, and only a powerful general and a legitimate heir could restore order.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2024
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

The execution of Charles I marked a significant turning point in English history, freeing the Puritans from royal control and allowing them to implement their beliefs and principles. Following Oliver Cromwell's conquest of Ireland, a period of radical change ensued, characterized by the confiscation of land, the allocation of it to British Protestants, and the reorganization of church and state. In contrast, the situation in Protestant Scotland presented a different challenge. When Charles II returned to England, the Scots rallied behind him, but Cromwell's forces managed to break through, driving the royalists back into England and defeating them at Worcester. While Scotland was not subjected to the same level of punishment as Ireland, it was nevertheless ruled from London, creating a unique political dynamic.

Despite having power in their hands, the Commonwealthsmen faced several challenges that contributed to their eventual downfall. Divergent aims among the leaders, an inability to effectively organize, and a lack of financial resources were among the factors that hindered their success. A godly way of life, while appealing to some, did not resonate with many, and taxation remained high, causing resentment among the populace. Millenarian excitement and the dominance of the army alarmed many, while social reform proved to be a slow and arduous process.

The ease with which revolution could be initiated was matched by the difficulty of establishing a stable and lasting settlement. In an age of religious ferment and commercial expansion, competing interests sought to advance their own agendas, further complicating the situation. Oliver Cromwell's powerful personality held the three nations together for a decade, but after his death, his son struggled to maintain stability. Reconciling the government and people of the three nations required the presence of a strong general and a legitimate heir who could restore order and unite the people.

The legacy of Charles I and Oliver Cromwell continues to be a subject of debate and analysis, with historians seeking to understand the factors that led to their success and failure and the impact their actions had on the course of English and British history. The struggle for religious and political freedom, the role of the army in shaping society, and the challenges of governing diverse nations are just some of the themes that continue to be explored in this rich and complex period.

Weight: 604g
Dimension: 166 x 245 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398113534