Oliver Cromwell (1599-1658) was an English statesman, politician, skilled soldier, and a leading Puritan advocate for the execution of King Charles in 1649, which led to the establishment of the Commonwealth of England that he ruled as Lord Protector from 1653 until his death in 1658. Click here for a ten-minute History of North America video with Mark Vinet posted on September 27, 2024.

Cromwell was a 17th century English political and military leader who served as Lord Protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland. He was known for being ruthless in battle and for twice removing the British monarch from power. 

Cromwell’s endeavors greatly influenced the British colonization of North America. Cromwell believed that the people should elect their political leaders, not rely on hereditary monarchies. This precedent was endorsed by Roger Williams in Rhode Island.

With the English government in turmoil, the colonies were left to fend for themselves economically, which led to a greater emphasis on trade and economic self-sufficiency. The colonies began to develop their own industries and to trade extensively with other nations, often in violation of English laws.