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Year 8 - History

Oliver Cromwell: The Interregnum and Protectorate

The English Civil War: what can pamphlets tell us about 17th century politics?

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils briefly learn about the causes and conduct of the English Civil War. They then learn about Oliver Cromwell's rule and the restoration of the monarchy. Pupils finish the unit by examining how these events were represented in popular political pamphlets of the day.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain how Cromwell ruled over England and the changes he implemented.

Key Notes

  • The years from 1649 - 1660 when England was a republic are known as the Interregnum.
  • Oliver Cromwell became the most powerful figure in England during the Interregnum.
  • Puritans hoped to make England a more godly country.
  • Sects like the Fifth Monarchists emerged but often opposed the actions of the government.
  • Cromwell's rule was unpopular as he reduced the power of Parliament and relied heavily on the army.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • republic: a republic is a country without a monarch
  • MP: an MP is a Member of Parliament; MPs help to make laws
  • reform: a reform is a change made in order to improve something
  • Protectorate: the Protectorate was the system of government set up by Oliver Cromwell and the New Model Army in 1653
  • sect: a sect is a group of people with a set of, often extreme, religious beliefs

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Parliament ruled the country for the whole Interregnum period.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Summarise this historical learning in two key ideas.

The years from 1649 - 1660 when England was a republic are known as the Interregnum. Oliver Cromwell became the most powerful figure in England during the Interregnum.

2. Define this history term and explain why it matters in this topic. 'republic'

a republic is a country without a monarch.

3. Correct this common history misconception using evidence language.

Mistake: Parliament ruled the country for the whole Interregnum period. Correction: Parliament ruled the country at the start of the Interregnum but was dismissed, recomposed, and ruled without at other times after 1652.

More Lessons In This Unit

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