Subject
Great Britain -- History -- Commonwealth and Protectorate, 1649-1660 Books
Best books
C. H. (Charles Harding) Firth
Oliver Cromwell and the Rule of the Puritans in England
"Oliver Cromwell and the Rule of the Puritans in England" by C. H. Firth is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the life and impact of Oliver Cromwell, a pivotal figure in English history, during the tumultuous period of the Puritan rule. It seeks to provide insights into Cromwell’s early life, his rise to power, and the broader implications of his leadership for England. The opening of the book delves into Cromwell's family background and early life, detailing how his lineage shaped his future. It recounts his humble beginnings as the son of Robert Cromwell and his education under Puritan influences, emphasizing his upbringing and early character. The narrative illustrates the socio-political landscape of England during Cromwell's youth, highlighting the historical contexts of the Reformation and the rise of Puritanism. As the chapter progresses, the scene is set for Cromwell's eventual political involvement as he navigates personal loss, local governance, and the emerging tensions between monarchy and Parliament. This rich historical tapestry primes readers for a deeper exploration of Cromwell’s critical role in the Civil War and his subsequent rule.
Bertha Meriton Gardiner
King and commonwealth : $b A history of Charles I. and the great rebellion
"King and commonwealth : A history of Charles I. and the great rebellion" by B. Meriton Cordery and J. Surtees Phillpotts is a historical account written in the late 19th century. It examines the constitutional and religious conflicts that escalated from the late Tudor settlement through James I to the crisis under Charles I, culminating in civil war. The focus is on how monarchic prerogative collided with parliamentary rights, the law courts, and church governance, with figures like Buckingham and measures such as the Petition of Right at the fore. The opening of the work sets out the English constitutional framework—legislative, executive, and judicial—and shows how English liberties (consent to taxation, jury trial, and due process) coexisted uneasily with royal prerogatives, pliant judges, and arbitrary courts like Star Chamber and High Commission. It contrasts Elizabeth’s cautious use of power with growing religious tensions: Puritans attacking “popish” ceremonies, Presbyterians demanding church government by assemblies, and sectarians pressing for liberty of conscience, while Elizabeth’s Protestant foreign policy (and the Armada’s defeat) keeps popular support. Under James I, the narrative highlights illegal impositions, coercive ecclesiastical procedure, arbitrary imprisonments (including Arabella Stuart), corruption illustrated by the Eliot–Nutt pirate case, the persecution of Puritans, and James’s wavering response to the Thirty Years’ War; Parliament asserts free speech in 1621 only to have its protest erased. The section then turns to Charles I’s accession: Buckingham’s dominance, Parliament’s one-year grant of tonnage and poundage, anger over English ships lent against the Huguenots, the failed Cadiz expedition, and the Commons’ impeachment of Buckingham, which Charles thwarts by arresting managers and dissolving Parliament.
Samuel Rawson Gardiner
Oliver Cromwell
"Oliver Cromwell" by Samuel Rawson Gardiner is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book provides a comprehensive biography of Oliver Cromwell, the influential Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, detailing his rise in political power and governance. It covers the complexities of his character and life, as well as the impact he had on English history, particularly during the English Civil War and the establishment of the Commonwealth. The opening of the text introduces Oliver Cromwell, born in 1599 in Huntingdon, detailing his early life, family background, and educational journey. It highlights Cromwell's moral and religious convictions, exploring how his upbringing, influenced by Puritanism, shaped his approach to politics and governance. Early accounts of his public career are provided, along with insights into the societal norms of his time, setting the stage for understanding his significant role in the conflict between the monarchy and Parliament. The stage is set for later discussions on his military successes and the broad political implications of his leadership during a pivotal moment in English history.
Edmund Goldsmid
Explanatory Notes of a Pack of Cavalier Playing Cards, Temp. Charles II. Forming a Complete Political Satire of the Commonwealth
"Explanatory Notes of a Pack of Cavalier Playing Cards, Temp. Charles II." by Edmund Goldsmid is a historical satire that was published in the late 19th century. This work serves as a detailed examination of a unique set of playing cards that illustrate the political landscape during the English Commonwealth under Oliver Cromwell and the subsequent Restoration. Through these cards, Goldsmid offers insights into the key figures and events of the period, ultimately portraying a critique of the political climate. The book presents an interpretative commentary on a pack of Cavalier playing cards, each featuring illustrations that reference notable characters and incidents from the time of Oliver Cromwell to the Restoration of Charles II. Each card is accompanied by explanatory notes that elaborate on the historical context and significance of the figures depicted, such as Cromwell, Ireton, and various parliamentarians. These explanations not only highlight the satirical elements of the playing cards but also provide a narrative that reflects the conflicts, betrayals, and shifting allegiances within this turbulent period of British history. Overall, Goldsmid's work serves as both a historical resource and a humorous critique of the political machinations of the era.
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