The Protectorate and the First Protectorate Parliament

Who wrote the Instrument of Government?

John Lambert

When was the Instrument of Government adopted by Cromwell?

15th December 1653

What did the Instrument of Government include?

Triennial parliaments (at least 5 months every 3 years), 400 MPs from England and 30 each from Scotland and Ireland and liberty of worship.

What were Cromwell's aims in accepting the constitution?

He wanted good governance through Parliament and 'healing and settling' of the nation.

Why was there conflict with Cromwell's aims and his parliaments (aims)?

He wanted godly reformation which came into conflict with his other aims and the reason why moderates opposed him. Also the constitution was created and imposed by the Army - liberty of conscience viewed as religiously radical.

What were the inherent contradictions of the Protectorate?

Pride's purge came about from a military coup (a lack of legitimacy), Cromwell's aims were contradictory and the godly only made up 15% of the population.

When was the First Protectorate Parliament?

3rd September 1654 - 22nd January 1655

How was the 1st Protectorate Parliament composed?

Attempts were made to lessen the influence of the gentry as they had royalist or Presbyterian sympathies and increase those from the 'middling sort.' Roman Catholics and known Royalists were ineligible to vote or be elected.

Why was there conflict between MPs and Cromwell (the constitution)?

MPs felt that there were little restrictions on Cromwell's power - tried to alter the Instrument and strengthen Parliament's powers, restrict religious toleration and the strength of the Army.

What were other problems with Parliament?

Cromwell insisted on MPs signing a 'Recognition' of the Instrument, 80 withdrew and debates continued.

What was the Biddle case of 1654?

John Biddle denied the Trinity and the divinity of Christ (a unitarian). He was interrogated by a parliamentary committee who decided to imprison him and have his work was banned.

What did Cromwell do and what does it show about MPs' attitudes towards religious toleration?

Cromwell exiled Biddle to remove him from Parliament and this case highlights that MPs were uncommitted to pursuing liberty of conscience and they were more religiously conservative.

How did this contribute to the dissolution of parliament?

Cromwell was frustrated with MPs and likely contributed to his decision to dissolve Parliament after 5 lunar months (on the 22nd January 1655).