John Lambert, Parliamentary Soldier and Cromwellian Major-General, 1619-1684 [Hardcover]

David Farr (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: August 31, 2003

John Lambert's life and career have long deserved this revealing study. The man who made Cromwell Lord Protector in 1653 also stopped him becoming king in 1657; and Lambert was the originator of the Instrument of Government, on which Cromwell's Protectorate was based. Committed to his deeply held, radical beliefs, Lambert first rose to prominence as a dashing cavalry commander in the civil wars of 1642 - 51, and he was a prominent upholder of the power of the New Model Army, particularly in his creation of the Major Generals, who ruled England in 1655. Lambert's refusal to countenance Cromwell as king saw his temporary fall from power, but he emerged after the Protector's death as a possible successor. His radical ideas seemed to threaten even 'his own side', and led to his imprisonment in the Tower in 1660, but he escaped and staged a last desperate republican stand against the return of Charles II. Although Lambert was subsequently convicted of treason, Charles did not have him executed - sure recognition that his character, private actions and beliefs were those of a man who was much more than a military revolutionary. DAVID FARR is head of history at Norwich School.

Editorial Reviews

Review

A well-put-together biography which...goes a long way towards plumbing the depths of an `unfathomed' swordsman with `a working brain'. ENGLISH HISTORICAL REVIEW An important study... A careful analysis of Lambert's motivation, his attachment to kinship, his military standing and his approach to religion. NORTHERN HISTORY A fine new biography....shows impressive command of both primary and secondary sources, and places Lambert within the context of his times most effectively. HISTORICAL JOURNAL

Product Details

• Hardcover: 278 pages
• Publisher: Boydell Press (August 31, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1843830043
• ISBN-13: 978-1843830047
• Product Dimensions: 9.6 x 6.2 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #4,151,030 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.