Overview

The English Civil War, fought between 1642 and 1646, occurred during one of the most turbulent but important periods in British history. Oliver Cromwell (1599--1658) was the leading political figure of this period. A religious visionary and moral reformer, Cromwell believed that the Lord had not only chosen him for a special mission but had also handed him the military success and political power to fulfill that divine task. He became a dazzlingly successful soldier and politician, a man who possessed the power and influence to shape the course of revolution and reform. A military genius, he played a crucial role both in crushing the monarchy in England and Wales and in establishing English republican control over Ireland and Scotland. He rose to be head of the army and eventually head of state of a united Britain as Lord Protector. This illustrated biography provides a concise and accessible introduction to Cromwell's life and career. The text draws upon extensive and up-to-date research as well as contemporary speeches and letters, both personal and political, giving an insight into the hopes and fears, goals and aspirations of the man behind one of the most critical periods of British history.

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9780814731642

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(<p> This biography is an excellent way to introduce readers to this dynamic personality who came to dominate the British Isles in the 17th century, rising from fairly humble beginnings to do so. )-( School Library Journal ), ()

Gaunt is an engaging writer who takes the reader through Cromwell's life, campaigns, and Protectorate. Readers learn the basics about Cromwell and more. There are few extant records about Cromwell, and historians hotly debate many of the earlier works written about him. This Cromwell Lite demythologizes much of that literature and sets the record straight. - Library Journal

Author Information

Peter Gaunt is reader in History at University College Chester, an affiliated college of the University of Liverpool. Among his previous books are A Nation under Siege: The Civil War in Wales; The British Wars, 1637--1651; and The English Civil War. He has been chairman of The Cromwell Association since 1990.

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