What kind of ruler was Oliver Cromwell?

Case study 2: Cromwell in the eyes of others

It would not be good history if we tried to understand Cromwell only by looking at his own words. We also need to look at what others said about Cromwell. See what these sources tell you.

Sources:

1. Portrait of Oliver Cromwell, c.1655

2. Extracts from the Humble Petition and Advice, 1657

3. Picture of Cromwell’s body lying in state in 1658

4. Memoirs of a senior army commander

5. Summary of Cromwell’s character by a royalist

6. Reactions to the death of Cromwell