Theo Habelko 26/11/14 Oliver Cromwell is a very controversial figure in English history. During his life, from 1653 to 1658, he opposed and eventually overthrew the anglican reign of Charles I. After bringing Charles I to execution, his idea of a puritan nation eventually collapsed . Soon after his death Richard, his son, lost the support of the army and Charles II gained power. On one hand, numerous people argue that Cromwell was a heroic and brave leader who managed to overthrow the tyranny of Charles, thus ending the absolute monarchy, and spawning a new democratic era. Others say that he was completely ineffective at accomplishing his goals, such as failing to establish England under a commonwealth. Once the evidence has been fully analysed, …show more content…
Cromwell, who is wearing his fancy armour once again, watches his men cut and dismember the branches of the oak, indicating how slowly but surely Cromwell’s Roundheads were defeating the Cavaliers. The hope that the Roundheads would come out victorious reinforces how his supporters must of been very faithful to Cromwell. Additionally, a short unbiased biography written on Oliver Cromwell tells us that he created a remarkable period of religious freedom, and that he was entirely committed to this view. This new era intrigued many people to join his regime. The fact that he obtained a very powerful voice, especially in the Rump Parliament and the 41-man Council of State, supports how he was able to obtain the committed followers he did. Cromwell was also very lenient, as shown in Heinemen History Scheme- The Early Modern World. However passionate towards the puritans of England having to live by puritan ideas, he made it so his followers did not have to become puritan. This treatment put less strain on people to support him. Referring to after Cromwell had defeated Charles I, the book also states that England was a peace under Cromwell rule. There were no wars, and as a result of making friends with the french Cromwell boosted Englands