Y8 Oliver Cromwell Flashcards
end of years
When was Oliver Cromwell born?
April 25, 1599
Born in Huntingdon, England.
What family background did Oliver Cromwell come from?
Relatively well-to-do family, distantly related to Thomas Cromwell
Thomas Cromwell was a key minister under King Henry VIII.
How many children did Oliver Cromwell have?
Nine children
He was the only boy to survive infancy among ten siblings.
Which schools did Oliver Cromwell attend?
Huntingdon Grammar School and Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge
He briefly studied at Cambridge before returning home.
What was Oliver Cromwell’s religious belief?
Devout Puritan
He believed in direct personal communication with God.
What did Cromwell oppose in terms of religious institutions?
Roman Catholic Church and Catholic-leaning reforms within the Church of England
His faith deeply influenced his political actions.
What year was Cromwell elected to Parliament for the first time?
1628
He represented Cambridge.
What military role did Cromwell take on during the English Civil War?
Cavalry leader
He had no significant military experience at the start.
Name two key battles Cromwell played a crucial role in.
- Battles of Marston Moor
- Battle of Naseby
These were key Parliamentary victories during the English Civil War.
What was the New Model Army based on?
Merit and discipline
Cromwell helped establish this army.
What position did Cromwell hold after the execution of King Charles I?
Lord Protector
He ruled over England, Scotland, and Ireland.
In what year did Cromwell become Lord Protector?
1653
He held the position until his death.
What did Cromwell refuse when offered by Parliament in 1657?
The crown
He chose to remain as Lord Protector instead.
What characterized Cromwell’s rule as Lord Protector?
Relative stability, legal reform, and promotion of education
He allowed broader religious toleration for Protestants.
How is Cromwell viewed as a historical figure?
Controversial
Some see him as a champion of liberty, while others criticize his actions.
When did Oliver Cromwell die?
September 3, 1658
He likely died from complications of malaria and kidney stones.
Where was Cromwell initially buried?
Westminster Abbey
His body was later exhumed and posthumously executed.
What happened to Cromwell’s head after his body was exhumed?
Displayed on a spike at Westminster Hall for about 20 years
This occurred after the restoration of the monarchy.
