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Not Just the Tudors
Oliver Cromwell: Protector & Dictator
Sep 19, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Professor Alice Hunt, an expert in 17th-century British history and author of "Republic, Britain's Revolutionary Decade 1649-1660," sheds light on Oliver Cromwell's rise to power. The conversation explores Cromwell's dramatic coup against Parliament, his controversial governance as Lord Protector, and the fragile political landscape of the time. Hunt reveals the complexities of Cromwell's legacy, including his challenges with succession and the implications of his refusal of the crown, all amid England's revolutionary transformations.
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Quick takeaways
- Cromwell's establishment of the Protectorate marked a pivotal shift from republicanism to individual leadership with a written constitution.
- The disastrous Western Design campaign highlighted the challenges Cromwell faced in balancing domestic governance with imperial ambitions and military endeavors.
Deep dives
Cromwell's Shift to a Protectorate
In 1653, Oliver Cromwell's dissatisfaction with the effectiveness of Parliament led him to dissolve it and establish a new form of governance known as the Protectorate. This shift involved the creation of the Barebones Assembly, a nominated group of individuals rather than an elected body, which struggled to gain legitimacy and public support. The situation highlighted the difficulties of maintaining a stable government in a time of rapid change, leading to John Lambert's proposal for Cromwell to become Lord Protector, a role that was designed to provide individual leadership without reverting to a monarchy. Cromwell's acceptance of this position marked a significant moment in British history as it resulted in the country's first written constitution, emphasizing governance based on protection rather than hereditary rule.
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