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Historical biography timeline

Oliver Cromwell biography timeline

Explore a static chronology of 302 World History Database records for Oliver Cromwell. The page is generated from the same biography records used by the searchable database, making important life events directly crawlable and readable.

302 records 1599–1901 record span 182 event labels 1 country

Life and historical importance

Oliver Cromwell: life, career and historical significance

Parliamentary commander in the English Civil Wars and later Lord Protector. His role in the defeat and execution of Charles I, republican government and military conquest in Ireland makes him one of the most important and controversial figures in British constitutional history.

Editorial overview by World History Database. The chronology below is generated from the site's structured biography records.

Chronology

Oliver Cromwell: dated events and historical records

Records are ordered by year, month and day where dates are available. The wording below comes from the World History Database biography collection.

1599
25th April

Birth of Oliver Cromwell

Huntingdon · England · House · House of Cromwell

Birth of Oliver Cromwell

1616
1616

Education

Cambridge · England · House · House of Cromwell

Sent to Sidney Sussex College but leaves after the death of his father a year later

1620
1620

Marriage

London · England · House · House of Cromwell

Marries Elizabeth Bourchier

1628
1628

Member of Parliament

Huntingdon · England · Government · Government of England · Member of Parliament for Huntingdon

Elected Member of Parliament for Huntingdon

1631
1631

St Ives

St Ives · England · House · House of Cromwell

Cromwell & his family live in St Ives, 1631-1636

1640
3rd November

Election for Cambridge

Cambridge · England · Government · Government of England · Member Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cambridge electors return Cromwell to the Long Parliament.

3rd November

Election to Long Parliament

Cambridge · England · Government · Government of England · Member Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cromwell is returned as member for Cambridge in the Long Parliament.

30th December

Annual Parliaments Bill

London · England · Government · Government of England · Member Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cromwell moves the second reading of a bill proposing annual parliamentary sessions.

December

Parliamentary Reform Activity

London · England · Government · Government of England · Member Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cromwell supports measures intended to prevent another prolonged suspension of Parliament.

1641
27th May

Abolition of Episcopacy Proposal

London · England · Religion · Church of England · Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cromwell promotes complete removal of bishops from the Church of England.

27th May

Root and Branch Bill Introduced

London · England · Religion · Church of England · Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cromwell supports introduction of legislation seeking abolition of episcopacy.

5th July

High Commission Act Supported

London · England · Government · Government of England · Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cromwell backs abolition of the court enforcing controversial church policies.

August

Religious Images Debate

London · England · Religion · Church of England · Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cromwell supports measures against ceremonial practices regarded as idolatrous.

23rd October

Response to Irish Rebellion

London · England · Government · Government of England · Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cromwell supports stronger parliamentary control during the Irish emergency.

December

Essex Trained Bands Proposal

London · England · Government · Government of England · Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cromwell proposes that the Earl of Essex command trained bands during the emergency.

December

Military Command Dispute

London · England · Government · Government of England · Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cromwell challenges exclusive royal control of armed forces during the Irish emergency.

December

Trained Bands Proposal

London · England · Government · Government of England · Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cromwell proposes placing London's trained bands under the Earl of Essex.

1642
15th July

Cambridge Volunteers

Cambridge · England · Government · Government of England · Member of Parliament Captain of Horse

Parliament authorises Cromwell to raise two volunteer companies in Cambridgeshire.

15th July

Cambridgeshire Volunteers Authorised

London · England · Warfare · Civil War · Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cromwell receives authority to raise volunteer companies in Cambridgeshire.

28th August

Cavalry Troop Mustered

Huntingdon · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain Captain of Horse

Cromwell musters a troop of horse for Parliament's army.

28th August

Commission as Captain of Horse

Huntingdon · England · Warfare · Civil War · Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cromwell receives authority to command a troop of horse raised around Huntingdon.

23rd October

Battle of Edgehill

Edgehill · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain Captain of Horse

Cromwell commands a troop of Parliamentarian horse during the Edgehill campaign.

1642

Disciplined Cavalry Recruitment

London · England · Warfare · Civil War · Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cromwell begins recruiting cavalry selected for discipline and religious commitment.

1642

Reballion of Rebels in Monmouthshire

Monmouthshire · England · Warfare · Civil War · Member of Parliament for Cambridge

Cromwell warns Parliament about possible Royalist and Catholic mobilisation in Monmouthshire.

1643
13th May

Battle of Grantham

Grantham · England · Warfare · Civil War

1st victory for Cromwell & the Eastern association

13th May

Battle of Grantham

Grantham · England · Warfare · Civil War · Colonel

Cromwell defeats a larger Royalist cavalry force near Grantham and strengthens Parliament's position in Lincolnshire.

24th July

Siege of Burghley

Burghley · England · Warfare · Civil War

Leads a successful siege in Northamptonshire against the Countess of Essex

28th July

Battle of Gainsborough

Gainsborough · England · Warfare · Civil War

Wins a victory over Royalist forces

28th July

Battle of Gainsborough

Gainsborough · England · Warfare · Civil War · Colonel

Cromwell helps relieve Gainsborough and drives Royalist cavalry from the field.

28th July

Governor

Isle of Ely · England · Government · Government of England · Governor of Isle of Ely

Receives news from Parliament that he has been appointed Governor of the Isle of Ely

10th August

Mobilization

London · England · Warfare · Civil War

Parliament issues instructions for the impressment of 22,000 in London & the east

10th August

New Model Army

England · Warfare · Civil War

Parliament issues instructions for the impressment of 22,000 in London & the east

25th September

Alliance Oliver Cromwell and Scottish Presbyterianism

England · Warfare · Civil War

Parliament promises to protect Scottish Presbyterianism

11th October

Battle of Winceby

Winceby · England · Warfare · Civil War · Parliamentarian Cavalry Commander

Cromwell helps lead Parliamentarian cavalry in the victory at Winceby, strengthening Parliament's control of Lincolnshire.

11th October

Battle of Winceby

Winceby · England · Warfare · Civil War · Colonel

Cromwell's cavalry helps defeat Royalist horse at Winceby during the struggle for Lincolnshire.

1643

County Associations

London · England · Warfare · Civil War

Counties are inefficient for managing armies so County Associations are formed

1643

Plantations Comm-Cromwell

London · England · Government · Government of England · Member of Plantations Comm

Appointed Member of Committee of Plantations

1643

Reform of War Policy

London · England · Warfare · Civil War

Counties are inefficient for managing armies so County Associations are formed

1644
5th February

Lieutenant

London · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Signs the Covenant enabling him to take up the position of Lieutenant Colonel

February

Eastern Association Cavalry Command

East Anglia · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant-General of Eastern Association Horse

Cromwell receives command of the Eastern Association cavalry and develops the disciplined mounted force later associated with his military reputation.

2nd July

Battle of Marston Moor

Marston Moor · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Sweeps away Gorings horse by attacking the Royalists from the rear. Defeats the Royalists near York, leaving 4,000 dead & taking 1,500 prisoners. Cromwell's first major victory, personally commands 2,500 men

2nd July

Battle of Marston Moor

Marston Moor · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell commands Eastern Association cavalry as Parliament and the Scots defeat Prince Rupert.

2nd July

Cavalry Command at Marston Moor

Marston Moor · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant-General of Eastern Association Horse

Cromwell commands the Parliamentarian left-wing cavalry and helps turn the fighting at Marston Moor into a decisive Royalist defeat.

4th July

Siege of York

York · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Resumes the siege of York after victory at Marston Moor

16th July

Capture of York

York · England · Warfare · Civil War

Leads the "Ironsides" & captures York

16th October

Capture of Newcastle

Newcastle · England · Warfare · Civil War

Commander of "Ironsides" during Parliaments capture of Newcastle

27th October

Second Battle of Newbury

Newbury · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant-General of Eastern Association Horse

Cromwell fights at Second Newbury and later urges a stronger pursuit of the withdrawing Royalist army.

27th October

Second Battle of Newbury

Newbury · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell criticises missed opportunities after the Parliamentarian attack fails to destroy the king's army.

10th November

Council of War

England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Advises a military defeat of the King after Manchester fails to persue him in battle

November

Criticism of Manchester

London · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant-General of Eastern Association Horse

Cromwell criticises Manchester's conduct of the war and presses Parliament for a more vigorous military strategy.

1644

Alliance Scotland and Parliament

England · Warfare · Civil War · Member of Both Kingdoms

Helps form an alliance between Scotland & Parliament

1644

Committee of Both Kingdoms

London · England · Warfare · Civil War · Member of Both Kingdoms

Appointed Member of Committee of Both Kingdoms

1644

Independents

London · England · Warfare · Civil War · Leader Independents

Appointed Leader of the Independents

1644

Reform of Religious Toleration

England · Warfare · Civil War · Leader Independents

Leads an Army sect demanding religious toleration & prosecution of criminals

1644

Second in Command

London · England · Warfare · Civil War · Second in Command

Appointed 2nd-in-Command of the Parliamentary Army

1645
22nd January

Lieutenant

London · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Appointed Lieutenant General of the Horse & Foot. Appointed 2nd-in-Command for Manchester

22nd January

Lieutenant

London · England · Warfare · Military · Lieutenant General

Appointed Lieutenant General of the Horse & Foot

14th March

Result of Surrender of Royalist Forces in the West

Exeter · England · Warfare · Civil War

Royalist resistance in the west collapses further, leaving Oxford as the principal remaining Royalist threat.

14th March

Surrender of Royalist Forces in the West

Exeter · England · Warfare · Civil War

The Royalists are defeated in the West, only Oxford remains as a serious threat. Sir Ralph Hopton signs articles of surrender at Exeter

3rd April

Dismissal

London · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Removes the existing Generals

3rd April

Lieutenant

London · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Fairfax succeeds Essex as Captain General & Cromwell becomes Lt General

3rd April

Second-in-Command

London · England · Warfare · Civil War · 2nd-in-Command-NMA

Appointed 2nd-in-Command of the New Model Army under Sir Thomas Fairfax

3rd April

Second-in-Command

London · England · Warfare · Military · 2nd-in-Command-NMA

Appointed 2nd-in-Command of the New Model Army

3rd April

Self-Denying Ordinance

Westminster · England · Government · Long Parliament · Member of Parliament

Cromwell is exempted from resignation pressure and continues military service with Parliament's army.

3rd April

Self-Denying Ordinance

London · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Removes the existing Generals. Creates a New Model Army becoming 2nd-in-Command under Sir Thomas Fairfax. All MPs except Cromwell must relinquish military commissions within 40 days

24th April

Battle of Islip

Islip · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell routs a detachment of Royalist horse at Islip during his raid against the king's artillery train.

2nd May

Battle of Faringdon

Faringdon · England · Warfare · Civil War

Defeated in battle by the Earl of Norwich, George Goring

2nd May

Skirmish at Faringdon

Faringdon · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Royalist forces under Goring damage part of Cromwell's regiment near Faringdon after his Oxfordshire raid.

7th May

Siege of Oxford

Oxford · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Charles I and Goring evade Parliamentarian forces and leave Oxford during the campaigning season.

19th May

Mobilization

Kenilworth · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Advances toward Kenilworth before parliamentary orders redirect forces during the Oxford operations.

19th May

Mobilization

Nuneham · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Joins Fairfax near Nuneham as Parliamentarian forces press operations around Oxford.

22nd May

Mobilization

Oxford · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Serves with Fairfax near Oxford as Parliamentarian forces try to contain Charles I's army.

31st May

Battle of Preston

Preston · England · Warfare · Civil War

Wins victory over the Scots under Hamilton. The 1st Battle over which Cromwell has independent command

31st May

Battle of Worcester

Worcester · England · Warfare · Civil War

Royalist victory, diverts Fairfax from Oxford, Charles then proceeds safely to Oxford

31st May

Mobilization

Cambridge · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Arrives in Cambridge to gather horse and reinforce the Eastern Association before rejoining the main campaign.

10th June

Commander of New Model Army

London · England · Warfare · Civil War · Commander of New Model Army

The Commons approves Cromwell's appointment as 2nd in Command of the New Model Army

10th June

Lieutenant

London · England · Warfare · Military · Lieutenant General Horse

The Commons approves Cromwell's appointment as Lieutenant General of the Horse

11th June

Mobilization

Bedford · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell moves toward Fairfax before the Naseby campaign as Parliament concentrates forces against Charles I.

12th June

Mobilization

England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell joins forces with Fairfax & Parliament has an Army of more than 13,000 men

14th June

Battle of Naseby

Naseby · England · Warfare · Civil War

Parliamentary victory, Charles has 7,500 men & Parliamentary forces number 13,500. Contributes to Charles downfall & the ascendancy of Cromwell & the independents

14th June

Battle of Naseby

Naseby · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Commands Parliamentarian cavalry on the right and helps Fairfax defeat the king's main field army.

14th June

Cavalry Command at Naseby

Naseby · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant-General of New Model Army Horse

Cromwell commands the New Model Army's horse at Naseby and turns his victorious cavalry against the Royalist infantry.

14th June

Royalist Infantry Flanked at Naseby

Naseby · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant-General of New Model Army Horse

After defeating the Royalist cavalry, Cromwell redirects his horsemen against the Royalist foot and helps decide the battle.

15th June

Siege of Oxford

Holton · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Establishes quarters around Holton while preparing pressure on the Royalist capital at Oxford.

10th July

Battle of Langport

Langport · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell's cavalry contributes to Parliament's victory over Goring's forces at Langport.

4th August

Battle of Hambledon Hill

Hambledon Hill · England · Warfare · Civil War

Cromwell routs Dorsetshire clubmen at Hambledon Hill

10th September

Assault on Bristol

Bristol · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell helps command Parliamentarian assaults on Bristol's defences.

10th September

Battle of Bristol

Bristol · England · Warfare · Civil War

Prince Rupert is forced to return to Oxford, his forces intact. Defeats Prince Rupert & captures Bristol

10th September

Capture of Bristol

Bristol · England · Warfare · Civil War

Defeats Prince Rupert & captures Bristol

10th September

Siege of Bristol

Bristol · England · Warfare · Civil War

Defeats Prince Rupert & captures Bristol

10th September

Siege of Bristol

Bristol · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Commands part of the Parliamentarian assault around Prior's Hill fort during the storming of Bristol.

25th September

Battle of Devizes

Devizes · England · Warfare · Civil War

Cromwell captures Devizes

28th September

Battle of Winchester

Winchester · England · Warfare · Civil War

Cromwell captures Winchester

September

Siege of Bristol

Bristol · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Present at Stapleton near Fairfax's headquarters during Parliament's siege of Bristol.

September

Siege of Bristol

Bristol · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Present near Keynsham during Parliament's siege operations against Bristol.

13th October

Battle of Basingstoke

Basingstoke · England · Warfare · Civil War

Secures the last major obstacle between London & the West Country. Defeats the Marquise of Winchester

14th October

Storming of Basing House

Basing House · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant-General of New Model Army Horse

Cromwell takes part in the storming of Basing House, removing a major Royalist stronghold controlling routes west of London.

14th October

Storming of Basing House

Basing House · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell storms Basing House and ends one of the strongest Royalist garrisons in southern England.

1645

Independents

England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Leads the Independents, a sect demanding religious toleration & prosecution of the war

1645

New Model Army

England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

The New Model Army is created by Oliver Cromwell & Thomas Fairfax. The Committee of Both Kingdoms recommends a new army of 22,000 run by Parliament. Persuades Parliament to adopt a new militia, maintained by impressment & taxation. Modeled after Cromwell's Ironsides

1645

Siege of Oxford

Oxford · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Helps blockade Oxford to prevent Charles I joining forces with Prince Rupert and Prince Maurice.

1646
24th June

Siege of Oxford

Oxford · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Oxford agrees surrender terms with Fairfax, ending the Royalist capital's resistance.

1647
5th June

Army Council

Newmarket · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell is associated with the Army leadership as officers and Agitators commit the Army not to disband until soldiers' pay, indemnity and political security are addressed

5th June

Grandees

Newmarket · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell acts among the Army Grandees as the New Model Army refuses disbandment on Parliament's terms and insists that the soldiers' political and military grievances must be settled

1st August

Heads of the Proposals

Reading · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell supports the Heads of the Proposals as a moderate Army settlement that would preserve limited monarchy while securing parliamentary and religious safeguards

6th August

Siege of London

London · England · Warfare · Civil War

Enters London with an Army & forces Parliament to take him & the other MPs back

28th October

Grandees

Putney · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell chairs the Army Council at Putney for the Grandees, attempting to preserve Army unity while allowing Agitators and Leveller advisers to present their constitutional demands

28th October

Putney Debates

Putney · England · Government · New Model Army · Lieutenant General

Cromwell attends Army Council debates over political settlement, representation and the army's demands.

28th October

Putney Debates

Putney · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell argues that the meeting should receive the radicals' proposals in orderly fashion so that the Army can judge their intentions and preserve unity

28th October

Putney Debates

Putney · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell chairs the opening session because Fairfax is absent and invites officers, soldiers and civilian advisers to speak on the public settlement after the First Civil War

29th October

Agreement of the People

Putney · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell seeks to manage the dispute over the Agreement of the People, allowing the radicals to speak while trying to preserve Army unity and prevent a break with constitutional order

1st November

Grandees

Putney · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell urges caution over breaking with monarchy, reflecting the Grandees' preference for a controlled settlement with Charles I rather than immediate adoption of the Leveller programme

1st November

Putney Debates

Putney · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell discusses the King's negative voice and treats kingship as contractual, while resisting proposals that would immediately overthrow the monarchy

2nd November

Putney Debates

Putney · England · Warfare · Civil War · Committee member

Cromwell joins the effort to have proposals refined by committee, aiming to turn the dispute over the Agreement into a controlled constitutional programme

8th November

Agitators

Putney · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell supports ending the open Army Council debates after the Agitators' demands threaten discipline and expose deep division between radical soldiers and senior officers

8th November

Putney Debates

Putney · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell backs suspension of the Army Council meetings because the Grandees fear that continued debate over the King and the Agreement will damage military discipline

15th November

Army Council

Ware · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell helps restore discipline at the Corkbush Field rendezvous after soldiers resist the Army Council's settlement, resulting in arrests and the execution of a mutineer

15th November

Grandees

Ware · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell helps enforce the Grandees' settlement at the Corkbush Field rendezvous, suppressing Leveller-influenced resistance and restoring discipline within the New Model Army

15th November

Levellers

Ware · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell suppresses Leveller-influenced resistance at the Corkbush Field rendezvous, restoring Army discipline after soldiers reject the Grandees' settlement and display slogans for England's freedom and soldiers' rights

1647

Arrest of Charles II

Holmby · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Orders the abduction of Charles II at Holmby

1647

Mobilization

Triptow Heath · England · Warfare · Civil War

Flees Parliament & joins an Army with 100 members of the House of Commons

1648
17th August

Battle of Preston

Preston · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant-General

Cromwell attacks the Scottish Engager army near Preston and begins the three-day campaign that destroys the invasion supporting Charles I.

17th August

Battle of Preston

Preston · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant General

Cromwell defeats the Engager army and breaks the main Royalist threat in the Second Civil War.

19th August

Battle of Winwick Pass

Winwick Pass · England · Warfare · Civil War

Fighting in the fields outside the town of Preston, the English Parliamentarian forces of Oliver Cromwell inflict a major reverse on the Anglo-Scottish Royalist army of the Duke of Hamilton

19th August

Royalist Army

Winwick Pass · England · Warfare · Civil War

Fighting in the fields outside the town of Preston, the English Parliamentarian forces of Oliver Cromwell inflict a major reverse on the Anglo-Scottish Royalist army of the Duke of Hamilton

6th December

Long Parliament

London · England · Warfare · Civil War

Divisions emerge culminating in Prides Purge when, under the orders of Oliver Cromwell's son-in-law Henry Ireton, Colonel Pride physically bars about half of the members of Parliament from taking their seats

6th December

Prides Purge

London · England · Warfare · Civil War

Divisions emerge culminating in Prides Purge when, under the orders of Oliver Cromwell's son-in-law Henry Ireton, Colonel Pride physically bars about half of the members of Parliament from taking their seats

December

Execution

London · England · Warfare · Civil War

In the wake of the ejections from the Long Parliament, the remnant, the Rump Parliament, arranges for the trial and execution of Charles I

December

Rump Parliament

London · England · Warfare · Civil War

In the wake of the ejections from the Long Parliament, the remnant, the Rump Parliament, arranges for the trial and execution of Charles I

1648

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England

Fails to persuade Charles to accept Constitutional limitations on monarchy. Agrees Parliaments decision to cease constitutional negotiations with the King

1648

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England

Before the execution of Charles I the Commons makes itself the highest body

1648

Execution

England · Government · Government of England

Before the execution of Charles I the Commons makes itself the highest body

1649
26th January

Execution

London · England · Government · Government of England

One of the signatories of Charles Is death warrant

January

Interregnum

London · England · House · House of Stewart · General Parliamentary Commander

Cromwell supported the trial and execution that preceded abolition of the monarchy.

14th February

Chairman

London · England · Government · Government of England · Chairman of Council of State

Appointed Chairman of the Council of State

14th February

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England

A Council of State becomes an executive over the House of Commons

February

Reform of Government

London · England · Government · Government of England

A committee including Cromwell revises the lists of JPs throughout England & Wales

19th March

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England

The Commons abolishes the House of Lords, against Cromwell's will

March

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England · Chairman of Council of State

The monarchy is abolished. The House of Lords is abolished

March

House of Lords

London · England · Government · Government of England · Chairman of Council of State

The House of Lords is abolished

17th May

Suppression of Burford Mutiny

Burford · England · Warfare · Civil War · Lieutenant-General

Cromwell helps suppress the Leveller-linked mutiny at Burford after army units resist orders and challenge the authority of their commanders.

19th May

Commonwealth

England · Government · Government of England

Parliament declares England a commonwealth with supreme authority in the Commons

19th May

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England

Parliament declares England a commonwealth with supreme authority in the Commons

19th May

Declaration of Commonwealth

London · England · Government · Government of England

Parliament declares England a commonwealth with supreme authority in the Commons

19th May

Parliament

London · England · Government · Government of England

Parliament declares England a commonwealth with supreme authority in the Commons

19th May

Reform of Parliament

London · England · Government · Government of England

Parliament declares England a commonwealth with supreme authority in the Commons

August

Interregnum

Ireland · England · House · House of Stewart · General Parliamentary Commander

Cromwell led the Commonwealth campaign to impose parliamentary authority in Ireland.

10th September

Reballion of Rebels in Drogheda

Drogheda · England · Warfare · Military · Commander in Chief

Aston refuses to surrender, Cromwell says he is not responsible for the bloodshed

11th September

Reballion of Rebels in Drogheda

Drogheda · England · Warfare · Military · Commander in Chief

Orders a massacre of 1,500, including English Royalists, civilians & Catholic priests. More that 3,500 defenders of Drogheda are killed, including 1,000 civilians. Launches a policy of terror to prevent the "effusion of blood". 1st day of the assault on Drogheda but Cromwell is forced to make a temporary retreat

11th September

Storming of Drogheda

Drogheda · England · Warfare · Cromwellian Conquest of Ireland · Lieutenant General

Cromwell storms Drogheda after refusing surrender terms and captures the Royalist garrison.

1st October

Reballion of Rebels in Wexford

Wexford · England · Warfare · Military · Commander in Chief

Cromwell arrives outside Wexford with 7,000 foot & 2,000 horse

3rd October

Reballion of Rebels in Wexford

Wexford · England · Warfare · Military · Commander in Chief

Requests Wexford to surrender but Sinnott refuses & waits for reinforcements

11th October

Reballion of Rebels in Wexford

Wexford · England · Warfare · Military · Commander in Chief

Stafford surrenders Wexford Castle to Cromwell. Cromwell occupies Wexford Castle & 1,500 in Wexford are massacred

11th October

Sack of Wexford

Wexford · England · Warfare · Cromwellian Conquest of Ireland · Lieutenant General

Cromwell's forces capture Wexford after negotiations collapse and Parliamentarian troops enter the town.

30th October

Reballion of Rebels in Drogheda

Drogheda · England · Warfare · Military · Commander in Chief

Set aside as a day of thanksgiving for the surrender of Drogheda

October

Reballion of Rebels in Wexford

Wexford · England · Warfare · Military · Commander in Chief

Orders the massacre of Wexford

1649

Commander in Chief

London · England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

Appointed Commander in Chief

1649

Commonwealth

England · Government · Government of England

The Rump Parliament is responsible for the setting up of the Commonwealth of England

1649

Commonwealth

London · England · Government · Government of England

"be true & faithful to the Commonwealth of England, without a King or House of Lords"

1649

Commonwealth

London · England · Warfare · Civil War

The Rump Parliament is responsible for the setting up of the Commonwealth of England

1649

Lord Lieutenant

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Lieutenant

Appointed Lord Lieutenant of Ireland

1649

Oath

London · England · Government · Government of England

"be true & faithful to the Commonwealth of England, without a King or House of Lords"

1649

Reballion of Rebels in Dundalk

Dundalk · England · Warfare · Military · Commander in Chief

After the bloodshed of Drogheda Dundalk surrenders without resistance

1649

Reballion of Rebels in New Ross

New Ross · England · Warfare · Military · Commander in Chief

Accepts the surrender of New Ross

1649

Reballion of Rebels in Trim

Trim · England · Warfare · Military · Commander in Chief

After the bloodshed of Drogheda Trim surrenders without resistance

1649

Reform of Government

London · England · Government · Government of England

A committee including Cromwell revises the lists of JPs throughout England & Wales. The name of the King's Bench is changed to the Upper Bench

1649

Rump Parliament

London · England · Warfare · Civil War

The Rump Parliament is responsible for the setting up of the Commonwealth of England

1650
27th March

Siege of Kilkenny

Kilkenny · England · Warfare · Cromwellian Conquest of Ireland · Lieutenant General

Cromwell accepts Kilkenny's surrender after disease and bombardment weaken the Confederate garrison.

17th May

Battle of Clonmel

Clonmel · England · Warfare · Civil War

Cromwells 8000 men eventually take the town from its 1000 Irish defenders, but not before they suffer heavy losses

17th May

Siege of Clonmel

Clonmel · England · Warfare · Cromwellian Conquest of Ireland · Captain General Commander in Chief

Cromwell's troops suffer heavy losses when Hugh Dubh O'Neill's defence traps the attackers at Clonmel.

26th May

Return from Ireland

Bristol · England · Warfare · Cromwellian Conquest of Ireland · Lieutenant General

Cromwell returns to England after leaving the Irish command to Henry Ireton.

26th June

Commander in Chief

London · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Succeeds Fairfax as captain-general and commander in chief before the Scottish campaign.

28th June

Invasion of Scotland

England · Warfare · England War · Commander in Chief

Sets off with a force to invade Scotland

22nd July

Invasion of Scotland

England · Warfare · England War · Commander in Chief

Crosses the Scottish border at the head of an Army of 16,000

30th August

Invasion of Scotland

Musselburgh · England · Warfare · England War · Commander in Chief

Holds a council of war & decides to retreat to Dunbar & fortify the town

30th August

Siege of Dunbar

Dunbar · England · Warfare · England War · Commander in Chief

Holds a council of war & decides to retreat to Dunbar & fortify the town. Decides to Fortify Dunbar in the hope of provoking Leslie into battle

31st August

Battle of Haddington

Haddington · England · Warfare · England War · Commander in Chief

Marches to Haddington persued by Leslie who puts Cromwell's rearguard into disorder

1st September

Siege of Dunbar

Dunbar · England · Warfare · England War · Commander in Chief

Offers the Scots battle, they refuse & Cromwell falls back to Dunbar

2nd September

Battle of Dunbar

Dunbar · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Writes that lying outside Dunbar is consuming the army as sickness spreads before battle.

3rd September

Battle of Dunbar

Dunbar · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Defeats David Leslie's Scottish army at Dunbar and opens the route to Edinburgh.

3rd September

Interregnum

Dunbar · England · House · House of Stewart · General Lord General

Cromwell defeated the Scottish army supporting Charles II at Dunbar.

September

Siege of Edinburgh

Edinburgh · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Begins operations around Edinburgh after victory at Dunbar weakens Scottish resistance in the south.

24th December

Surrender of Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Edinburgh Castle surrenders to Parliamentarian forces after Cromwell's army occupies southern Scotland.

1650

Commander in Chief

London · England · Warfare · Military · Commander in Chief

Cromwell is appointed Fairaxs successor, "captain-general and Commander in Chief of all the forces raised or to be raised at authority of Parliament within the Commonwealth of England"

1650

Commonwealth

London · England · Warfare · Military · Commander in Chief

Cromwell is appointed Fairaxs successor, "captain-general and Commander in Chief of all the forces raised or to be raised at authority of Parliament within the Commonwealth of England"

1650

Commonwealth Arms

London · England · Government · Commonwealth of England · Captain General Commander in Chief

Orders royal symbols removed and replaced with the arms of the Commonwealth.

1650

King's Arms

London · England · Government · Commonwealth of England · Captain General Commander in Chief

Orders removal of the king's arms from public use after the establishment of the Commonwealth.

1651
14th February

Council of State

London · England · Government · Government of England · Chairman of Council of State

The Council of State is established by Act of Parliament as a ruling body

14th March

Council of State

London · England · Government · Government of England · Chairman of Council of State

The Council of States 14 members are elected, including Cromwell

17th March

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England

The Monarchy is abolished

19th March

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England

The House of Lords is abolished, Cromwell wished to keep it as an advisery body

19th March

House of Lords

England · Government · Government of England

The House of Lords is abolished, Cromwell wished to keep it as an advisery body

May

Commonwealth

London · England · Government · Government of England

The Commonwealth is formerly enacted by Parliament

May

Reform of Parliament

London · England · Government · Government of England

The Commonwealth is formerly enacted by Parliament

2nd August

Siege of Perth

Perth · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Perth surrenders after Cromwell's advance cuts the Scottish army from supplies and reinforcements.

24th August

Mobilization

Warwick · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Joins forces with Lambert and Harrison at Warwick during the pursuit of Charles II.

27th August

Battle of Worcester

Worcester · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Writes that the enemy in Worcester must fight or be trapped as Parliamentarian forces close around the city.

27th August

Encirclement of Worcester

Worcester · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Cromwell tightens the Parliamentarian encirclement, leaving Charles II increasingly confined around Worcester and unable to continue toward London.

27th August

Mobilization

Evesham · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Arrives near Evesham south-east of Worcester with the army preparing to close on Charles II.

29th August

Artillery Deployment

Red Hill · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Cromwell positions Parliamentarian artillery on the heights around Red Hill and Perry Wood east of Worcester.

29th August

Bombardment of Worcester

Perry Wood · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Cromwell's artillery begins bombarding Worcester from positions around Perry Wood as the Parliamentarian siege lines tighten.

3rd September

Battle of Worcester

Worcester · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Cromwell leads a Parliamentarian army of about thirty thousand against Charles II's smaller Royalist and Scottish force at Worcester.

3rd September

Battle of Worcester

Worcester · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Leads about 28,000 Parliamentarian troops to victory over Charles II at Worcester.

3rd September

Bombardment from Fort Royal

Fort Royal · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Cromwell's forces turn captured guns at Fort Royal against Worcester as Royalist resistance disintegrates.

3rd September

Capture of Fort Royal

Fort Royal · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Parliamentarian troops seize Fort Royal during Cromwell's final assault, breaking a major part of Worcester's south-eastern defence.

3rd September

Crossing of the Severn

River Severn · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Cromwell personally leads three brigades across the Severn pontoon to reinforce the Parliamentarian attack west of the river.

3rd September

Flanking Attack

Powick Hams · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Cromwell's brigades strike the Scottish flank while Fleetwood presses from the front, forcing the defenders away from the Teme.

3rd September

Reinforcement of Perry Wood

Perry Wood · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Cromwell reinforces the eastern fighting after Charles II's counterattack threatens Parliamentarian positions around Perry Wood.

4th September

Battle Report

Worcester · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Cromwell reports the total defeat of the Royalist army and describes the victory at Worcester as a crowning mercy.

4th September

Demobilization after Worcester

Worcester · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Cromwell releases newly raised local forces after the victory, reducing the military burden on counties that had answered Parliament's call.

4th September

Dismantling Worcester Defences

Worcester · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Cromwell orders Worcester's walls pulled down and its defensive ditches filled after the Parliamentarian victory.

4th September

Prisoners at Worcester Cathedral

Worcester Cathedral · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Thousands of Royalist prisoners are gathered at Worcester Cathedral while Cromwell's army secures the city after the battle.

17th September

Dissolution of Parliament

London · England · Government · Government of England

Dissolution of the "Rump Parliament" is debated by a committe set up for the purpose

September

Pontoon Bridge Preparations

River Severn · England · Warfare · Civil War · Captain General Commander in Chief

Cromwell prepares floating bridges across the Severn and Teme so his separated wings can support one another during the assault.

9th October

Reform of Trade

London · England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

Anti-Dutch legislation forbids importation by by Dutch shipping

October

Interregnum

London · England · House · House of Stewart · General Lord General

The Commonwealth enacted a Navigation Ordinance during Cromwell's military ascendancy.

December

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England

Decides it is necessary for a "settlement of the nation" & a constitution

1652
24th February

Act of General Pardon and Oblivion

London · England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

Parliament enacts the General Pardon and Oblivion after Worcester, offering broad wartime pardons while excluding specified offenders.

February

Legislation

England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

The Act of Indemnity, for acts of treason before the Battle of Worcester

February

Pardon

London · England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

The Act of Indemnity, for acts of treason before the Battle of Worcester

February

Treason

England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

The Act of Indemnity, for acts of treason before the Battle of Worcester

August

Legislation

London · England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

The Act of Settlement is passed. Irishmen who have killed an Englishman except in war will be executed & lose estates. Anti-English are liable to lose land & be deported

August

Reform of Government

London · England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

The Act of Settlement is passed. Irishmen who have killed an Englishman except in war will be executed & lose estates. Anti-English are liable to lose land & be deported

1st December

Sale-Hyde Park

London · England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

Cromwell sells Hyde Park to 3 buyes for œ17,000, an entrance fee is required

1652

Siege of Dunettar

Dunettar · England · Warfare · Military · Commander in Chief

The final capitulation of the scattered Royalist strongholds

1653
19th April

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

Cromwell holds a conference to discuss a new provisional Government

19th April

Provisional Government

England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

Cromwell holds a conference to discuss a new provisional Government

20th April

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

The Council of State is dissolved, the army is left in power

20th April

Council of State

England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

The Council of State is dissolved, the army is left in power

20th April

Interregnum

House of Commons · England · House · House of Stewart · General Lord General

Cromwell dissolved the Rump Parliament after denouncing its continued rule.

20th April

Parliament

London · England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

Enters the Commons & forcefully expels the Rump Parliament

12th December

Barebones Parliament

London · England · Government · Government of England

The Barebones Parliament is forcefully dissolved

12th December

Dissolution of Parliament

London · England · Government · Government of England

The Barebones Parliament is forcefully dissolved

16th December

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Cromwell accepts the position of Lord Protector. As Protector, Cromwell has the power to call and dissolve Parliaments but is obliged under the Instrument of Government to seek the majority vote of a Council of State

16th December

Instrument of Government

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

As Protector, Cromwell has the power to call and dissolve Parliaments but is obliged under the Instrument of Government to seek the majority vote of a Council of State

16th December

Interregnum

Westminster · England · House · House of Stewart · General Lord Protector

Cromwell became Lord Protector under the written constitution called the Instrument of Government.

16th December

Lord Protector

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Cromwell signs his name Oliver P, standing for Oliver Protector - in a similar style to that used by English monarchs - and it soon becomes the norm for others to address him as "Your highness". As Protector, Cromwell has the power to call and dissolve Parliaments but is obliged under the Instrument of Government to seek the majority vote of a Council of State. Appointed Lord Protector

1653

Barebones Parliament

London · England · Government · Government of England

Calls a Puritan Convention which is nicknamed the Barebones Parliament

1653

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

After the dissolution of the Barebones Parliament, John Lambert puts forward a new constitution known as the Instrument of Government, closely modelled on the Heads of Proposals, it makes Cromwell Lord Protector for life

1653

Dissolution of Parliament

London · England · Government · Government of England

Dissolves the Rump Parliament

1653

Instrument of Government

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

After the dissolution of the Barebones Parliament, John Lambert puts forward a new constitution known as the Instrument of Government, closely modelled on the Heads of Proposals, it makes Cromwell Lord Protector for life

1653

Parliament

London · England · Government · Government of England

Calls a Puritan Convention which is nicknamed the Barebones Parliament

1653

Parliament

London · England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

The Rump Parliament is replaced by a Puritan Parliament

1653

Rump Parliament

London · England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

Oliver Cromwell forcibly disbands the Rump when it seems they might disband his expensive army of 50,000 men

1654
5th April

Treaty of Westminster

Westminster · England · Government · Treaty of Westminster · Lord Protector Lord Protector Of England

Concludes peace with the Dutch Republic, ending the First Anglo-Dutch War

3rd September

First Protectorate Parliament

Westminster · England · Government · Protectorate Parliament · Lord Protector Lord Protector Of England

The first Protectorate Parliament meets for the first time

3rd September

Interregnum

Westminster · England · House · House of Stewart · General Lord Protector

Cromwell opened the First Protectorate Parliament under the new constitutional system.

3rd September

Protectorate Parliament Opening

Westminster · England · Government · Protectorate Parliament · Lord Protector Lord Protector Of England

Addresses the first Protectorate Parliament at its inaugural meeting

12th September

Constitution of England

Westminster · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector Lord Protector Of England

Tells Parliament that sovereignty is not a mere feather in the hat

1654

Dutch Conference

London · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector Lord Protector Of England

Hosts talks with Dutch representatives but fails to obtain political union

1654

Protectorate Government

London · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector Lord Protector Of England

Governs under the Instrument of Government as the Protectorate settles into operation

1655
22nd January

Dissolution of Parliament

London · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector Lord Protector Of England

Dissolves the First Protectorate Parliament after constitutional conflict

22nd January

Interregnum

London · England · House · House of Stewart · General Lord Protector

Cromwell dissolved the First Protectorate Parliament after disputes over constitutional authority.

March

Suppression of Penruddock Rising

London · England · Warfare · Military · Lord Protector Lord Protector Of England

Suppresses the royalist rising and hardens security policy

16th May

Invasion of Jamaica

London · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector Lord Protector Of England

The Western Design captures Jamaica from Spain under Penn and Venables

August

Rule of the Major-Generals

London · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector Lord Protector Of England

Orders Major-Generals to be appointed to control local militias and security

24th October

Commercial Treaty with France

London · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector Lord Protector Of England

Agrees a commercial treaty with France after worsening relations with Spain

October

War with Spain

London · England · Warfare · Anglo-Spanish War · Lord Protector Lord Protector Of England

Moves into open conflict with Spain after the seizure of Jamaica

1655

Decimation Tax

London · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector Lord Protector Of England

Uses a tax on Royalists to fund militia and security under the major-generals

1655

Launch of Naseby

Woolwich · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector Lord Protector Of England

Launches the large warship Naseby during the naval expansion of the Protectorate

1656
17th September

Interregnum

Westminster · England · House · House of Stewart · General Lord Protector

Cromwell opened the Second Protectorate Parliament.

17th September

Parliament

London · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

The 2nd Proctorate Parliament opens

1656

Declaration of War

London · England · Warfare · England War · Lord Protector

Declares War against Spain

1656

Plot

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Charles II offers a knighthood & 500 pounds pension pa to anyone who would kill Cromwell

1656

Trade Treaty at London

London · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Portugal ratifies a commercial Treaty with England

1657
March

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Cromwell is offered the crown by Parliament as part of a revised constitutional settlement, presenting him with a dilemma, since he had been "instrumental" in abolishing the monarchy, Cromwell agonises for six weeks over the offer

March

Parliament

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Cromwell is offered the crown by Parliament as part of a revised constitutional settlement, presenting him with a dilemma, since he had been "instrumental" in abolishing the monarchy, Cromwell agonises for six weeks over the offer

13th April

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Makes clear that Gods providence had spoken against his office of king, "I would not seek to set up that which Providence hath destroyed and laid in the dust, and I would not build Jericho again"

8th May

Humble Petition

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Cromwell rejects the Humble Petition

8th May

Interregnum

Whitehall · England · House · House of Stewart · General Lord Protector

Cromwell formally refused the crown offered under the Humble Petition and Advice.

8th May

Kingship

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Cromwell rejects the offer of the Kingship

8th May

Succession

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Cromwell rejects the offer of the Kingship

8th May

Succession

London · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Announces he will not accept the title of King

25th May

Investiture

London · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Agrees to Parliaments proposal that he should be invested as Lord Protector

26th May

Constitution of England

Dunkirk · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Cromwell is installed as Lord Protector under a new constitution

26th June

Interregnum

Westminster Hall · England · House · House of Stewart · General Lord Protector

Cromwell underwent a second inauguration with ceremonial features resembling monarchy.

26th June

Investiture

London · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Invested as Lord Protector in Westminster Hall, where Charles I was tried 8 yrs prior

26th June

Lord Protector

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Cromwell is ceremonially re-installed as Lord Protector (with greater powers than had previously been granted him under this title) at Westminster Hall, sitting upon King Edward's Chair which was specially moved from Westminster Abbey

1657

Alliance Agreement with France

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Signs a Treaty of alliance with France

1657

Alliance Oliver Cromwell and France

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Signs a Treaty of alliance with France

1657

Anglo-French Flanders Alliance Implemented

Flanders · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Cromwell commits English troops and naval support to joint operations against Spain in Flanders.

1657

Capture of Dunkirk

Dunkirk · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

It is agreed France will capture Gravelines & England will capture Dunkirk & Mardyck

1657

Capture of Gravelines

Gravelines · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

It is agreed France will capture Gravelines & England will capture Dunkirk & Mardyck

1657

Capture of Mardyck

Mardyck · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

It is agreed France will capture Gravelines & England will capture Dunkirk & Mardyck

1657

England will provide a fleet & 6,000 men & France 20,000 men

Flanders · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

England will provide a fleet & 6,000 men & France 20,000 men against Spain in Flanders

1658
11th March

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

The Upper House will consist of 70 members nominated by Cromwell

11th March

Reform of Parliament

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

The Upper House will have 70 members nominated by Cromwell to balance the Commons

11th June

Constitution of England

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

An Upper House is established by a Bill passed by Parliament

11th June

Legislation

England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

An Upper House is established by a Bill passed by Parliament

14th June

Battle of Dunes

Dunes · England · Warfare · France War · Commander in Chief

Victory for the French & English over the Spanish

14th June

Capture of Dunkirk

Dunkirk · England · Warfare · Military · Commander in Chief

England captures Dunkirk from Spain. Dunkirk is surrendered

14th June

Rule of Dunkirk

Dunkirk · England · Warfare · Military · Commander in Chief

Dunkirk remains in English hands until Charles II sells it to Louis XIV in 1662

3rd September

Death of Oliver Cromwell

England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

Death of Oliver Cromwell, during a bout of malarial fever

3rd September

Death of Oliver Cromwell

England · Government · Government of England · Commander in Chief

Death of Oliver Cromwell

3rd September

Interregnum

Whitehall · England · House · House of Stewart · General Lord Protector

Oliver Cromwell died, destabilising the Protectorate settlement.

18th October

Burial

London · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Lying-in-State with an effigy, imitating the tradition of Kings. Lying-in-State from 18 October to 10 November at Somerset House

1658

Sends 6,000 Ironsides to join up with Turennes army of 20,000

London · England · Government · Government of England · Lord Protector

Sends 6,000 Ironsides to join up with Turennes army of 20,000

1660
October

Posthumous Attainder

Westminster · England · Government · Restoration · General

Cromwell is attainted after death for his central role in the Commonwealth and regicide settlement.

1661
30th January

Posthumous Execution

Tyburn · England · Government · Restoration · General

Cromwell's body is posthumously hanged at Tyburn as part of the Restoration punishment of regicide leaders.

1875
1875

Statue

Manchester · England · House · House of Cromwell

A statue in honour of Cromwell is unveiled

1899
3rd September

Statue

London · England · House · House of Cromwell

A statue in honour of Cromwell is unveiled opposite the Houses of Parliament

1901
1901

Statue

St Ives · England · House · House of Cromwell

A statues in honour of Oliver Cromwell is unveiled at St Ives

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Compiled and edited by World History Database

Biography timelines are compiled from the World History Database and checked against established historical and biographical reference sources.

Last reviewed: September 2026.

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