The rule of Richard Cromwell Flashcards
Why did Oliver Cromwell delay announcing his successor until the morning of his death?
Had doubts about suitability of Richard
Why were none of the MP’s likely successors?
Hostile to the army
What problems faced Richard Cromwell?
- Failed to live up to father’s reputation
- Government heavily depended on him
- Had never served in the army - not respected
- Faced with conflicts between army and MPs
When did RC call a parliament?
1659
What main problem needed addressing?
Overcoming the financial deficit
How much was owed to the army?
£90,000
What did the MPs recognise RC as?
Lord Protector
What were the two views surrounding the Protectorate?
One group wanted it disbanded and return to Commonwealth; other group wanted to keep RC as Lord Protectorate
What did the army want?
To be granted immunity from prosecution for actions during Commonwealth (NMA)
How did the army get RC to dissolve parliament and when?
Brought troops in and April 1659
Who was the top man in the army?
Charles Fleetwood (married RC’s daughter)
What did CF encourage?
Sending of petitions for independence
What did the General of the Army suggest?
Increase taxes to pay for army
Why was there unrest in the lower ranks?
They didn’t trust the officials, believed they were moving away from the ‘Good Old Cause’
What was the ‘Good Old Cause’?
Name given by NMA to the reasons for starting the civil war
