The Parliament of Saints Flashcards
Success of the Nominated Assembly
• Trade routes
Its member attempted to secure trade routes by continuing the war with the Dutch
Success of the Nominated Assembly
• Wales and Scotland
The assembly included members from Wales, Scotland and Ireland, making it the first parliament to represent all of Britain
Failure of the Nominated Assembly
• Its members
The majority of its members were from the lesser gentry, who were conservative by nature and were not interested in reforms
Failure of the Nominated Assembly
• Division
There was clear split between the radical ‘saints’ and the conservative members
Example of matters that the Saints were divided on
The propertied members were unhappy at the suggestion that the assembly abolish tithes, which were key to their financial well-being
Success of the Nominated Assembly
• Social reforms
It directly addressed the reforms the Rump had avoided, including poor relief, legal reform, tithes, religion, prisons and corruption
Success of the Nominated Assembly
• Passing statues
During its five-month existence it passed more than 30 statutes.
How did the Nominated Assembly end?
In December 1653, Major General Lambert brought in a vote disperse the Assembly and to hand power directly to Cromwell.
The length of the Parliament of Saints
It was assembled in July 1653 and lasted less than six months.
The Instrument of Government
• Inspiration
It was modelled on the Heads of Proposals issued by Ireton in 1647, and served as the constitutional basis of Cromwell’s power
The Instrument of Government
• The role of Cromwell
Executive authority was vested in Cromwell as Lord Protector, with a Council of State of 21 members, and was to remain head of the New Model Army
The Instrument of Government
• Church
There would be a Presbyterian state Church, but freedom of worship was granted for all except Catholics
The Instrument of Government
• Election
Parliaments were to be elected every three years by voters with at least £200 of personal property
The Instrument of Government
• A single chamber parliament
A single chamber parliament acted as the legislative branch of government, with 460 members
What was the purpose of the Instrument of Government?
It attempted to provide a sound constitution after the failures to find a settlement after the Civil War
