Cromwell: Parliament's Crusading Politician by Michael Naseby

Cromwell by Michael Naseby is no ordinary history of Oliver Cromwell.

Instead Lord Naseby delves deep into how he shaped the principles of parliamentary government and the legacy that continues to influence Westminster today.

Oliver Cromwell remains one of English history’s most complex figures. He is often remembered for presiding over the execution of King Charles I and bringing centuries of monarchical rule to an abrupt end. However, far less attention is given to his role in shaping the principles of parliamentary government that followed. This book seeks to redress that balance.

It presents Cromwell as a courageous military commander, a committed Puritan and a politician driven by his belief in fair and accountable representation. It has been meticulously researched by Lord Naseby who, drawing on his own experience of more than 50 years in Parliament, paints a vivid and sympathetic view of Cromwell.

It reveals the contradictions of his character, the convictions that guided him and the legacy he left behind — a legacy that continues to influence the workings of Westminster and the democratic life of the United Kingdom today.

Lord Naseby, formerly Michael Morris MP, was first elected to Parliament in 1974 for Northampton South with a majority of just 179.

He was Northampton’s first conservative MP for 50 years. He went on to represent his constituency for 23 years, rising to be deputy Speaker of the House of Commons and Chairman of Ways and Means.

In recognition of his long parliamentary service at local, national and international levels, he was elevated to the House of Lords where he took the name of Lord Naseby in honour of the thousands who gave their lives in pursuit of political and religious freedom at the Battle of Naseby during the English Civil War.

The village of Naseby is located adjacent to Michael’s former constituency.

Michael’s fascination with Oliver Cromwell began at an early age: from playground fights between Roundheads and Cavaliers to attendance at the Crusaders bible study classes.

Later, he discovered a number of shared parallels in background and belief. Both men were informed by the physical landscapes of Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire, both educated at Cambridge and both inspired by writers John Bunyan and John Milton, contemporaries of Cromwell.

Above all, despite living and working more than three centuries apart, they share values of integrity, resolve and an unwavering commitment to principle supported by a deep knowledge of parliamentary procedure.

Also written by Michael Naseby - The Few Who Flew and Sri Lanka.