The National Archives Learning Curve - Civil War
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What kind of ruler was Oliver Cromwell?

Case study 1: Cromwell in his own words

One obvious way to try and understand the puzzle of Oliver Cromwell is to look at his own words. We are lucky that there is a collection of his speeches and letters. See what they tell you about him.

Sources:

Abbott, ed. Writings & Speeches of Oliver Cromwell
1. Order from Cromwell to the Tower of London, 1654
Abbott, ed. Writings & Speeches of Oliver Cromwell
2. Order about publication of pamphlets, 1654
Abbott, ed. Writings & Speeches of Oliver Cromwell
3. Document appointing a Major General, 1655
Abbott, ed. Writings & Speeches of Oliver Cromwell
4. Cromwell’s reply when asked to be king, 1657
Abbott, ed. Writings & Speeches of Oliver Cromwell
5. Speech on the Humble Petition and Advice, 1657
Abbott, ed. Writings & Speeches of Oliver Cromwell
6. Cromwell’s thoughts about his job, April 1657