NAME Oliver Cromwell
WHAT FAMOUS FOR Oliver Cromwell is renowned as a military leader, statesman, and the Lord Protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland, who played a key role in the English Civil War and the abolition of the monarchy.
BIRTH Born on April 25, 1599, in a modest house near Ermine Street, Huntingdon, England.
FAMILY BACKGROUND Cromwell was the only son of Robert Cromwell, a modest landowner who passed away in 1617, and Elizabeth Steward, who raised Oliver and his seven sisters in a simple yet disciplined household. He was distantly related to Thomas Cromwell, a minister of Henry VIII.
CHILDHOOD Cromwell’s upbringing was modest despite his family's modest affluence. His mother provided a strong moral foundation for her children.
EDUCATION Cromwell attended Huntingdon Grammar School, an institution that also educated Samuel Pepys. It now serves as the Cromwell Museum. He briefly studied at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge, where he was known for gambling and pursuing romantic interests before returning home after his father’s death.
CAREER RECORD 1620 Returned to Huntingdon to manage his late father's estate
1628-1629 MP for Huntingdon
1631 After 10 years as a farmer, Cromwell failed to establish himself. He sold most of his land at Huntingdon and rented grazing land at St Ives.
1636 Inherits property in Ely from his wife’s family.
1640 Returned to Parliament as member for Cambridge.
1644 Made Lieutenant General again. Led the New Model Army to victory in the English Civil War
1653 Suspends Rump Parliament and replaces it with the Barebones Parliament. Becomes Lord Protector.
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| Portrait by Samuel Cooper, 1656 |
FASHION He favored plain Puritan attire but was fond of an unusual Italian hat with a long feather, inspiring the "macaroni" reference in "Yankee Doodle."
In the early 1640s, he was described as wearing a plain cloth suit, likely tailored by a country artisan, and his linen was often simple and unkempt.
A staunch critic of the Cavaliers' extravagant fashion, Cromwell condemned their flowing hair, moustaches, and beards. He believed these were symbols of the bourgeois Cavalier class, and as a result, beards fell out of fashion in the mid-16th century.
Ironically, while he criticized the Cavaliers' style, Cromwell himself adopted a more regal appearance as Lord Protector. He was seen wearing opulent purple velvet and ermine robes, and sat upon a satin coronation chair during his official ceremony. This stark contrast between his earlier austere style and his later more extravagant attire highlights the complexities of his character and the changing political landscape of the time. Prince Rupert, Charles I's general, used the term "Ironside" sarcastically to refer to Cromwell and his Puritan supporters.
CHARACTER Cromwell was a devout Puritan, known for his strict moral code, yet pragmatic in leadership. He was unflinchingly direct and despised flattery. A rumbustious redhead with a manic temperament, yet was compassionate and tender.
In early 1640s, his voice was "sharp and untuneable and his eloquence full of fervour."
SENSE OF HUMOUR Despite his stern public image, Cromwell possessed a playful side that often surprised those who knew him. He enjoyed practical jokes, such as pillow fights, revealing a more lighthearted nature. Contemporary accounts suggest he had a penchant for "unseemly practical jokes," hinting at a mischievous streak.
Beyond physical humor, Cromwell also appreciated wordplay. According to History Today, he was known to indulge in "terrible puns," showcasing a fondness for witty, if sometimes groan-inducing, verbal humor.
This more playful side contrasts with the often dour image of Cromwell. Those who knew him personally described him as capable of deep emotion and enjoyment of various forms of entertainment. These facets of his personality offer a more nuanced understanding of the complex man behind the historical figure.
RELATIONSHIPS Oliver Cromwell married Elizabeth Bourchier on August 22, 1620, at St. Giles, Cripplegate, London. Their marriage was characterized by mutual affection and loyalty.
Evidence suggests a loving relationship between the couple. They exchanged tender love letters during Cromwell's military campaigns, highlighting the depth of their emotional connection. Oliver valued Elizabeth's unwavering loyalty, dedicated support, and ability to maintain a well-ordered household.
Three letters from 1650 and 1651 provide a glimpse into their intimate relationship. In one letter, Elizabeth poignantly wrote to Cromwell, "Truly my life is but half a life in your absence," underscoring the profound impact of his absence on her.
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| Portrait of Cromwell's wife Elizabeth Bourchier |
Oliver Cromwell and Elizabeth had nine children together, of whom eight reached adulthood, with only James dying in infancy. Five of their children survived both Oliver and Elizabeth
Their eldest son Richard succeeded his father in 1658 as Lord Protector and was totally incompetent. He was nicknamed "tumbledown dick" as he kept falling down.
MONEY AND FAME Cromwell initially struggled with finances as a farmer but gained wealth and influence during his political and military rise.
He paid his newly formed Model Army a substantial wage of ten pence per day, a significant sum at the time.
Cromwell declined the offer of the kingship, fearing it would lead to a military dictatorship. Instead, he relied on his personal prestige and charisma to maintain power.
Some of his personal belongings are now preserved at Chequers, the official country residence of the British Prime Minister.
FOOD AND DRINK As Lord Protector, Cromwell imposed various social restrictions. He closed pubs, levied a tax on tea, and condemned Christmas pudding as "an abominable idolatrous thing to be avoided by Christians." He even went so far as to ban pie-eating, deeming it a pagan pleasure. This led to a decade-long underground pie culture, which persisted until the Restoration in 1660.
Despite his puritanical leanings, Cromwell had his own indulgences. While he abstained from alcohol, he was an avid tobacco user, a habit that drew criticism from some contemporaries. His family's breakfast typically consisted of a rich broth or "caudle," followed by a cup of small ale with toast and sugar.
Cromwell's own perspective on food is captured in his quote: "Some people have food but no appetite; others have an appetite but no food. I have both, the Lord's name be praised." This reflects a sense of gratitude for the simple pleasures of life, including the ability to enjoy a good meal.
MUSIC AND ARTS Contrary to the common perception of Oliver Cromwell as a dour and joyless Puritan, evidence suggests a more nuanced character with an appreciation for music and certain forms of art. He delighted in listening to the organ, indicating a fondness for sacred music. Music was among his recreational pursuits, suggesting he enjoyed it as a pastime.
While Cromwell's relationship with the arts was complex, he did engage with it in some ways. He commissioned portraits by renowned artists like Sir Peter Lely and Robert Walker.
However, it's important to note the contrast between his personal interests and the broader cultural climate he shaped. As Lord Protector, he implemented policies that banned public stage plays, aligning with the Puritan ethos of the time. This period is often characterized as a "war against fun," with restrictions on various forms of entertainment.
Despite these policies, Cromwell's personal enjoyment of music and certain arts reveals a more complex individual. His appreciation for these forms of expression existed alongside his strict Puritan beliefs, highlighting the multifaceted nature of his character and rule.
LITERATURE Cromwell valued religious texts and sought to make the Bible accessible to commoners.
Cromwell appears in numerous historical novels, often as a divisive figure. For example, he is a central character in Antonia Fraser’s Cromwell: Our Chief of Men, which portrays his life in detail.
NATURE He had a practical relationship with the land as a farmer but no noted affinity for nature.
PETS Cromwell, coming from a family of minor gentry, would have been familiar with farm animals. In fact, during a period of financial difficulty in the 1630s, Cromwell kept chickens and sheep, selling eggs and wool to support himself.
HOBBIES AND SPORTS Cromwell was a man of action and enjoyed various physical activities. In his youth, he was enthusiastic about football, cudgelling, wrestling, and an early form of cricket.
As he aged, his interests shifted towards hunting and horse racing. He was known to be an excellent judge of horses and owned racehorses, including the famous "Dun Arabian," which competed at Banstead Downs in 1654. Cromwell's passion for horses led him to invest significant time, money, and effort in establishing his own stud and importing valuable bloodlines from abroad.
Additionally, he enjoyed the leisurely pastime of playing bowls.
SCIENCE AND MATHS When Cromwell attended Sidney Sussex College at the University of Cambridge from April 1616, he reportedly did well in mathematics
PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY A devout Calvinist, Cromwell sought to reform England’s spiritual landscape, supporting religious toleration for Protestants.
Oliver Cromwell's philosophy and theology were deeply intertwined, reflecting a complex blend of Puritan beliefs, democratic ideals, and a conviction in divine providence. His worldview evolved significantly throughout his life, shaping his political and military actions.
A pivotal moment in Cromwell's life came in 1635, when following a depressive illness, he underwent a profound religious conversion. This led to an intensely dedicated Puritan lifestyle, which became the cornerstone of his personal and public life.
Cromwell's religious zeal manifested in various ways:
Religious Reform: He supported public religious lectures and sought to replace the Church of England with a Calvinist-style system. He restricted Anglican and Catholic practices while promoting Puritan ideals.
Moral Legislation: As Lord Protector, he imposed strict moral codes, banning Christmas celebrations, closing pubs, and outlawing activities like cockfighting and public drunkenness.
Cromwell's belief in direct access to Scripture led to policies aimed at making the Bible accessible to the common people. In a radical move for the time, he allowed Jews to return to England in 1655, believing their conversion would hasten the Second Coming of Christ.
Cromwell's New Model Army embodied his religious and political ideals. This disciplined force of 21,000 soldiers saw their role as a divine calling, carrying Bibles and engaging in prayer before battles.
Cromwell's own words reveal the moral complexities of his position: "It's an odd thing, Mr Ireton. Every man who wages war believes God is on his side. I'll warrant God should often wonder who is on his." This quote reflects his awareness of the moral ambiguities inherent in his role as a leader.
In conclusion, Oliver Cromwell's philosophy and theology were a complex blend of Puritan faith, divine providence, and political pragmatism. His policies and actions, while often controversial, were driven by a deep-seated belief in his mission to shape England's future.
POLITICS Cromwell was instrumental in overthrowing the monarchy and establishing a republican government, though his rule resembled a military dictatorship.
Oliver Cromwell's political journey was marked by a radical transformation from a young man defending democratic ideals to a powerful leader who shaped the course of English history.
Initially, he championed radical causes, defending a democrat who advocated for universal male suffrage. His conversion to Puritanism in the 1630s led to a deep religious fervor and a desire to reform the Church of England. He supported the rise of independent preachers and sought to replace the established church with a more austere Calvinist model.
As Lord Protector, Cromwell implemented a series of social and religious reforms. He banned public celebrations like Christmas and cockfighting, and imposed strict laws against swearing and drunkenness. He also aimed to make the Bible accessible to the common people and restricted the practices of Anglicans and Catholics.
Cromwell's rule was characterized by a blend of religious zeal and political pragmatism. He dissolved Parliament multiple times and established a military dictatorship, dividing England into military districts. Yet, he also made significant strides in religious tolerance, inviting Jews to return to England after centuries of exile.
His New Model Army, a highly disciplined force, was driven by a strong sense of religious purpose. They saw their role in the Civil War as a divine mission to purify England.
Cromwell's foreign policy, marked by alliances with France and war with Spain, had mixed consequences for England's economy.
His legacy remains complex and controversial. While admired by some for his strong leadership and religious conviction, he is also criticized for his authoritarian tendencies and religious intolerance.
LORD PROTECTOR Oliver Cromwell took over after the whole Charles I debacle, and for nearly five years, he ran the show. It was a bit of a weird time, a sort of halfway house between monarchy and republic, a blip in history that we now call the Protectorate.
Cromwell's role as Lord Protector was established after the defeat and execution of King Charles I. As Lord Protector, Cromwell's position was akin to that of a monarch, involving "the chief magistracy and the administration of government". However, his power was not absolute, as he was required to obtain a majority vote from the Council of State to call or dissolve parliament, setting a precedent for the relationship between the monarchy and parliament that continues to this day.
During his tenure as Lord Protector, Cromwell, a strict Protestant and Puritan, implemented significant changes based on his religious beliefs. His rule was characterized by strict moral codes and religious reforms that shaped English society during this period.
But let's not forget the military side of things. Cromwell was a bit of a badass on the battlefield, leading his New Model Army to victory after victory. He was a tough cookie, a man who didn't mince words. He wasn't afraid to get his hands dirty, and he certainly wasn't afraid to chop off a few heads.
After Cromwell's death, his son, Richard, took over. But he was a bit of a wimp, really. He didn't have the same charisma or the same iron fist as his old man. So, the whole thing fell apart, and the monarchy was restored under Charles II.
SCANDAL While a pivotal figure in English history, Oliver Cromwell remains a controversial figure. Here are some of the criticisms leveled against him:
Regicide: While he initially sought reconciliation with the monarchy, he eventually signed the death warrant of King Charles I. This act of regicide has been condemned by many.
Oppressive Rule: Cromwell's rule was marked by authoritarian tendencies. He dissolved Parliament multiple times and imposed strict moral codes, including the banning of Christmas celebrations.
Religious Intolerance: His Puritan beliefs led to the persecution of Catholics and Anglicans.
Irish Massacres: The massacres at Drogheda and Wexford in Ireland, where thousands of Catholics were killed, remain a dark stain on his legacy. These actions have been condemned as acts of genocide.
Economic Policies: Some historians argue that his economic policies, particularly those related to Ireland, were detrimental to the long-term prosperity of both nations.
These criticisms highlight the complex and often contradictory nature of Cromwell's legacy. While he is celebrated by some as a champion of religious freedom and republicanism, others view him as a tyrant who used religion to justify violence and oppression.
MILITARY RECORD Despite having no formal military training, Oliver Cromwell proved to be a remarkably skilled military leader. His involvement in the English Civil War was significant, and he played a crucial role in shaping its outcome.
Cromwell's innovative approach to military strategy and tactics was instrumental in his successes. He formed the New Model Army, a disciplined and religiously motivated force that was far superior to the traditional armies of the time. He introduced basic training for his troops, a revolutionary concept at the time, and instilled in them a strong sense of purpose and discipline.
Some of his most significant military victories include:
Marston Moor (July 2. 1644): Cromwell's forces, though outnumbered, decisively defeated the Royalist army. This victory marked a turning point in the war and solidified Cromwell's reputation as a brilliant military commander.
Naseby (June 14, 1645): The New Model Army, under Cromwell's leadership, inflicted a crushing defeat on the Royalist forces.
Dunbar (September 3, 1650): This first major battle of the 1650 invasion of Scotland, was triggered by Scotland's acceptance of Charles II as king of Britain after the beheading of his father, Despite being outnumbered and trapped, Cromwell's strategic brilliance led to a decisive victory over the Scottish Covenanters.
Worcester (September 3, 1651): A Parliamentarian army of around 28,000 under Oliver Cromwell defeated a largely Scottish Royalist force of 16,000. This final defeat of the Royalist forces under Charles II secured Cromwell's dominance over Britain.
Cromwell's military acumen, combined with his unwavering religious faith, made him a formidable force on the battlefield. His legacy as a military leader continues to be admired and studied to this day.
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| Cromwell in the Battle of Naseby in 1645 as depicted in a portrait by Charles Landseer |
HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Oliver Cromwell's life was marked by both physical and mental health challenges. Physically, he suffered from kidney stone disease, which caused significant discomfort. Later in his life, malaria became a recurring issue, culminating in a severe bout of malarial fever and a urinary infection in 1658.
Cromwell also struggled with mental health issues, experiencing bouts of "melancholia," the 17th-century term for depression. In 1628, he sought treatment for various ailments, including depression. His letters reveal a deep sense of loneliness, a sentiment that resonates with many who have experienced mental health challenges.
Cromwell's spiritual journey was intertwined with his physical and mental health. He underwent a profound spiritual crisis in the late 1620s and early 1630s, which significantly impacted his well-being. This period of darkness was followed by a transformative religious experience that brought him out of his despair.
Despite his health challenges, Cromwell led an active life. His bouts of depression almost led him to emigrate to America in the 1630s, but he persevered and went on to become a prominent military and political figure.
HOMES Oliver Cromwell's residences reflected his evolving status and power.
Ely House: Cromwell's fortunes improved in 1636 when he inherited property in Ely from his uncle Thomas Steward, including a house near the cathedral. This became the Cromwell family home for over a decade and is now known as Oliver Cromwell's House:
As Cromwell's political career advanced, he moved his family to London. They first lived in Drury Lane after 1646. Later, upon becoming Lord Protector, they moved to lodgings within the Whitehall palace estate, in the converted Cockpit.
Hampton Court Palace served as a weekend retreat, providing a peaceful escape from the demands of governance. The Cromwell family lived in the lavish state apartments and used the palace for relaxation and entertainment.
These royal residences allowed Cromwell to project an image of authority and power, while also providing comfortable and prestigious living quarters for his family.
TRAVEL Cromwell traveled extensively across England and Ireland for military and political campaigns but never left the British Isles.
DEATH Oliver Cromwell died at Whitehall Palace on September 3, 1658. His death coincided with a violent storm that swept across England, leading to speculation about its significance. His final words, "it is not my design to drink or to sleep but my design is to make what haste I can to be gone," reflected a sense of urgency and spiritual readiness.
Cromwell's death at the age of 59 was likely due to a combination of factors, including septicemia from a urinary infection, complications from malaria, and the emotional toll of his daughter's recent death.
Following his death, Cromwell was initially buried in Westminster Abbey. However, after the Restoration of the monarchy in 1661, his body was exhumed, hanged, drawn, and quartered. His head was displayed on a pole outside Westminster Abbey for 24 years before it was eventually lost. The head changed hands several times, becoming a macabre relic and a source of fascination. It was eventually buried in secret at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge, in 1960.
APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Oliver Cromwell's controversial legacy has made him a frequent subject of media portrayals, ranging from historical dramas to satirical works. These appearances often emphasize his complex character, highlighting his religious fervor, military prowess, and political ambition.
FILM AND TELEVISION Cromwell (1970) Richard Harris starred as Cromwell in this historical drama that focuses on his rise during the English Civil War and the trial of Charles I. The film portrays Cromwell as a principled, if austere, leader, though it takes historical liberties.
Winstanley (1975) This low-budget film explores Cromwell’s role in the suppression of radical political movements like the Diggers. It depicts him as a pragmatic and authoritarian figure.
To Kill a King (2003) Tim Roth played Cromwell in this dramatization of his relationship with Thomas Fairfax and their role in Charles I’s downfall. Roth’s portrayal leans into Cromwell’s more ruthless traits.
BBC Series The Devil's Whore (2008) Dominic West portrayed Cromwell in this drama about the English Civil War, showing him as a conflicted and morally complex leader.
Cromwell has been featured in numerous documentaries, such as BBC's The English Civil War and Channel 4's The Trial of the King Killers, which delve into his military campaigns, politics, and impact on British history.
SATIRE: Cromwell has been lampooned in satirical poetry and plays, particularly in the Restoration era, where writers mocked his Puritanical reforms and authoritarian rule.
Cromwell frequently appears in political cartoons, particularly in debates about republicanism and authoritarianism, symbolizing both virtue and tyranny.
ART AND VISUAL REPRESENTATIONS Cromwell famously insisted on realistic depictions in his portraits, saying to Peter Lely, “Paint me as I am—warts and all.” This phrase has since become synonymous with unflinching honesty in portrayals.
MUSIC Cromwell has been immortalized in traditional folk songs, often emphasizing his role in the Civil War and the execution of Charles I. Some songs, such as those from the Irish tradition, portray him negatively due to his actions in Ireland.
Monty Python's "Oliver Cromwell" humorously narrates Cromwell’s life, poking fun at his strict morality and controversial decisions.
He is occasionally mentioned in American contexts, such as in the song "Yankee Doodle," which references his feathered hat.
VIDEO GAMES Cromwell has appeared in strategy games set during the English Civil War, such as Civilization or Europa Universalis, where players can interact with or emulate his policies.
ACHIEVEMENTS Cromwell abolished the monarchy, established the Commonwealth, and initiated military reforms that revolutionized England’s army. Here are some of his achievements:
1. Improved public morals
2. Briefly transformed England from a monarchy to a commonwealth
3 The key figure in establishing the world's first Parliamentary democracy
4. Gave Scotland and Ireland parliamentary representation
5. Reorganised the national church and under him the commonwealth became the head and champion of Protestant Europe
Sources History Today, Voice
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