What were the various names given to the assembly that convened on July 4, 1653, before Oliver Cromwell became Lord Protector?

Barebone's Parliament was also known by several other names, including the Little Parliament, the Nominated Assembly, and the Parliament of Saints. These alternative names reflect different perspectives on its composition and perceived legitimacy.

What was the primary purpose of Barebone's Parliament in the political landscape of the English Commonwealth?

Barebone's Parliament represented the English Commonwealth's final effort to establish a stable political structure before Oliver Cromwell was installed as Lord Protector. It was an attempt to create a functioning government after the dissolution of the Rump Parliament.

Who was responsible for selecting the members of Barebone's Parliament?

The members of Barebone's Parliament were entirely nominated by Oliver Cromwell himself, along with the Council of Officers of the New Model Army. This method of selection differed significantly from traditional elections, as no popular vote was involved.

How did the assembly gain the popular name 'Barebone's Parliament'?

The parliament acquired its most common name, Barebone's Parliament, from one of its nominated members, Praise-God Barebone, who was a leather seller representing the City of London. His distinctive name became synonymous with the assembly.

Who presided over the proceedings as the Speaker of the House in Barebone's Parliament?

Francis Rous served as the Speaker of the House for Barebone's Parliament. He was initially elected as chairman before assuming the title of Speaker approximately one month after the assembly's inauguration.

What was the total number of individuals nominated to Barebone's Parliament, and how were they distributed across England, Scotland, and Ireland?

A total of 140 individuals were nominated to the assembly. Of these, 129 were from England, five were from Scotland, and six were from Ireland. These delegates from Scotland and Ireland were primarily English soldiers stationed in those regions at the time.

When did Barebone's Parliament officially dissolve itself?

After experiencing internal conflict and disagreements, the members of Barebone's Parliament voted to dissolve the assembly on December 12, 1653. This marked the end of its short-lived existence.

What legislative body immediately preceded Barebone's Parliament, and which body followed it?

Barebone's Parliament was preceded by the Rump Parliament and was succeeded by the First Protectorate Parliament. The First Protectorate Parliament marked a new phase in the Commonwealth's governance under Oliver Cromwell.

What was the political situation in England following the execution of King Charles I?

Following King Charles I's execution, the Rump Parliament was the sole remaining governing body in England. However, it lacked broad representation and popular legitimacy, as it had not been elected by the general populace.

What was the general mood and desire of the country regarding governance after the execution of Charles I?

The country was eager for long-needed reforms to be implemented, but the Rump Parliament made minimal progress in addressing these demands. This created a sense of stagnation and a desire for change.

What significant legislative act was passed by the Rump Parliament in 1652, and what was its immediate consequence?

In 1652, the Rump Parliament enacted a Navigation Act, intended to support English merchants and bolster the nation's maritime trade. This act, however, contributed to the outbreak of the First Anglo-Dutch War in the same year, escalating international tensions.

Why did the Rump Parliament not initiate new elections for a representative body?

The Rump Parliament made no moves to dissolve itself or call for new elections. This decision stemmed from a desire to maintain their existing power rather than facilitate a transition to a more broadly representative government.

What event on April 20, 1653, created a legislative vacuum in England?

The forced dissolution of the Rump Parliament on April 20, 1653, by Oliver Cromwell created a legislative vacuum. With the Rump Parliament disbanded, there was no established plan or blueprint for its replacement, leading to uncertainty.

What justification did Cromwell and the Council of Officers provide for dissolving the Rump Parliament?

Cromwell and the Council of Officers stated they were 'led by necessity and Providence to act as we have done, even beyond and above our own thoughts and desires.' This implied that their actions were guided by divine will rather than personal ambition.

What body was established on April 29, 1653, and what were its primary responsibilities?

A small Council of State, consisting of thirteen members, was established on April 29, 1653. This council was tasked with managing foreign policy and the day-to-day administration of the country during the interim period.

Who retained responsibility for deciding the future form of government after the Rump Parliament's dissolution?

The Council of Officers of the Army continued to hold the ultimate responsibility for making decisions regarding the new structure of the government following the dissolution of the Rump Parliament.

What was John Lambert's proposal regarding the distribution of power in the new government?

John Lambert advocated for concentrating power within a smaller governing body, suggesting that it should be lodged in the hands of ten or twelve individuals. This approach aimed for efficiency and decisive leadership.

What were Thomas Harrison's beliefs and proposals for the new assembly, influenced by his religious views?

Thomas Harrison, a proponent of Fifth Monarchist beliefs, argued that their duty was to hasten the coming of Christ's kingdom by entrusting power to godly individuals. He proposed an assembly of 70 members, mirroring the ancient Jewish Sanhedrin, as a model for this godly governance.

What model did the Council of Officers ultimately adopt for the size and composition of the new assembly?

The Council of Officers decided on an assembly of 140 representatives. This number was double the size of the Sanhedrin proposed by Harrison, possibly representing a practical compromise and allowing for broader representation from across the territories.

How were the members of the new assembly selected, according to the Council of Officers' agreement?

The Council of Officers agreed that members would be chosen by the council itself, with all council members empowered to put forward nominations for the assembly. This ensured that the selection process remained under the control of the military leadership.

What was the general sentiment among religious sects regarding the nominated assembly?

While some congregations expressed skepticism, viewing the selection process as a choice between supporting Christ or Cromwell, most religious sects welcomed the decision to form the nominated assembly. They saw it as a potential step towards a more godly government.

What historical event did Oliver Cromwell highlight in his opening speech to the assembly on July 4, 1653?

In his opening speech, Cromwell emphasized the 'series of Providences' that led to the assembly's formation. He particularly highlighted the year 1648 as a highly significant and memorable period in the nation's history.

What was the reported statement by Cromwell regarding Jesus Christ's power during his inaugural speech?

Cromwell reportedly declared, 'God doth manifest it to be *the* day of the Power of Jesus Christ.' This statement has often been interpreted as reflecting his belief that the assembly marked the beginning of Christ's reign on Earth.

How does the first published version of Cromwell's speech differ from the reported version regarding Jesus Christ's power?

The first published version of Cromwell's speech softened the statement to 'God doth manifest it to be a day of the Power of Jesus Christ.' This alteration suggests a less definitive claim about the immediate start of Christ's kingdom, potentially indicating a more nuanced or cautious interpretation.

What was the purpose of the 'instrument' read out after Cromwell's speech?

The 'instrument,' drafted by the Council of Officers, was read out to formally invest power in the newly formed assembly. It outlined the authority granted to the nominated members.

When did Francis Rous officially become known as the Speaker of the House?

Francis Rous, initially elected as chairman, was not formally recognized as the Speaker of the House until approximately one month after the assembly's inauguration on July 4, 1653.

Who were the five individuals, besides Cromwell, co-opted as members of the assembly shortly after its inauguration?

Following the initial sitting, John Lambert, John Desborough, Thomas Harrison, Matthew Tomlinson, and Henry Scobell (appointed as Clerk) were co-opted as members of the assembly. This expanded the core group involved in governance.

When did the assembly formally declare itself to be the parliament of the Commonwealth of England?

The assembly formally declared itself to be the parliament of the Commonwealth of England on July 12, 1653, just eight days after its inauguration. This marked its official recognition as a legislative body.

What was the contemporary perception of the members of Barebone's Parliament, as expressed by a newswriter?

A contemporary newswriter derisively described the members as 'Pettifoggers, Innkeepers, Millwrights, Stockingmongers and such a rabble as never had hopes to be of a Grand Jury.' This reflects a common criticism of their perceived low social standing and lack of experience.

Who was Praise-God Barebone, and why is his name significant to the parliament?

Praise-God Barebone was a leather seller, a Fifth Monarchist, and a lay preacher from London. His nomination to the assembly led to it being commonly known as Barebone's Parliament, overshadowing its official titles.

What did historical analysis reveal about the actual social standing of Barebone's Parliament members, contrary to contemporary criticisms?

Contrary to contemporary slanders, analysis indicates that the members were primarily drawn from the wealthiest five percent of the population, and very few were actual tradesmen. This suggests the criticisms were largely exaggerated or misinformed.

How many members of Barebone's Parliament were identified as regicides (those who signed the death warrant of Charles I)?

Only four regicides were appointed to Barebone's Parliament: Anthony Stapley, John Carew, Thomas Harrison, and Oliver Cromwell himself. This indicates a limited direct involvement of those who had directly participated in the King's trial.

Which of the regicide members were also known Fifth Monarchists?

Thomas Harrison and John Carew were the regicide members who were also identified as Fifth Monarchists. Their presence highlighted the influence of radical religious factions within the assembly.

When did the assembly begin debating the controversial issue of tithes?

The assembly commenced its debate on the subject of tithes on July 13, 1653, just nine days after its inauguration. Tithes, a system of church taxes, were a contentious issue among various religious groups.

What were the primary religious and economic objections raised against the system of tithes?

Objections to tithes included the view that they were a remnant of Catholicism, that they supported a professional clergy rather than a voluntary ministry, and that their economic burden was unfairly distributed among the populace.

How did the debate over legal reform divide the members of Barebone's Parliament?

The reform of the legal system created division, with Fifth Monarchists advocating for laws based solely on scripture, while others, like former members of the Rump's Hale Commission, pushed for more progressive legal changes based on existing structures.

What was Oliver Cromwell's reported sentiment regarding the internal conflicts within the assembly by early September 1653?

By early September, Cromwell was reportedly frustrated with the assembly's infighting. He expressed that he was 'more troubled now with the fool than before now with the knave,' indicating his dissatisfaction with the perceived lack of progress and wisdom.

What concern did Cromwell express in a letter to Charles Fleetwood regarding the members' attitudes?

Cromwell complained in a letter to his son-in-law Charles Fleetwood that the members were overly focused on propagating their own differing viewpoints ('judgements'). This intense focus on individual factions hindered the acceptance of kindness and cooperation among them.

How did parliamentary attendance change between July and October 1653?

Attendance at the assembly decreased significantly between July and October 1653. While over one hundred members were present for most votes in July, the average turnout dropped to only 70 by October, indicating waning engagement.

What types of legislative proposals led to significant conflict between radical and moderate members?

Proposals such as abolishing the Court of Chancery, regulating legal fees, and expediting cases in the Court of Admiralty became bogged down in conflict between different factions. These issues highlighted the deep divisions within the assembly.

What critical vote occurred on December 6, 1653, concerning the report on tithes?

On December 6, 1653, the assembly voted against the first clause of the committee's report on tithes by a narrow margin of 56 to 54. This vote represented a significant defeat for the moderate faction within the parliament.

What action did Francis Rous and approximately 40 other members take following the defeat on the tithes report?

Following the defeat on the tithes report, Francis Rous and around 40 members walked out of the assembly. They proceeded to Whitehall to present a document to Cromwell, arguing that the parliament's continued sitting was not beneficial for the Commonwealth.

How did the troops present at Whitehall respond to the situation after the moderates left the assembly?

Troops confronted the remaining members in the House after the moderates had departed. They requested that the remaining members leave, effectively bringing the session of Barebone's Parliament to an end.

What significant constitutional document was adopted by the Grandees following the dissolution of Barebone's Parliament?

Following the collapse of Barebone's Parliament, the Grandees, a powerful faction within the army leadership, adopted the Instrument of Government. This document established a new framework for governance.

What political system did the Instrument of Government establish?

The Instrument of Government paved the way for the establishment of Oliver Cromwell's rule as Lord Protector. This marked the beginning of the Protectorate period in English history.

What image is presented in the source material related to Oliver Cromwell?

The source material includes an image of Oliver Cromwell, identified as a portrait by Samuel Cooper. This visual representation accompanies the discussion of his role in the period.

What image is presented in the source material related to John Lambert?

The source material features an image of John Lambert, identified as a portrait. Lambert was a significant figure in the New Model Army and played a role in the events leading to Barebone's Parliament.

What image is presented in the source material related to Praise-God Barebone?

The source material includes an image of Praise-God Barebone, identified as a portrait. He is notable for lending his name to the parliament, despite its official titles.

What is the title of the list of members nominated to the English parliament in 1653, mentioned in the 'See also' section?

The 'See also' section refers to the 'List of MPs nominated to the English parliament in 1653.' This list provides detailed information about the individuals who comprised Barebone's Parliament.

According to the provided references, what is the ISBN for Austin Woolrych's book 'Commonwealth to protectorate'?

According to the provided references, the ISBN for Austin Woolrych's book 'Commonwealth to protectorate' is 0-19-822659-4. This book is cited as a source for information on the period.

What is the DOI for Henry Charles Midgley's 2016 article on the Assembly of 1653?

The DOI for Henry Charles Midgley's article, 'Political thinking and the creation of the Assembly of 1653,' is 10.1080/0268117X.2016.1153979. This identifier allows for precise retrieval of the academic work.

Barebone S Parliament Wiki: The Nominated Assembly: Cromwell's Parliament of Saints

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Overview

A Unique Legislature

Barebone's Parliament, also known by its contemporary nicknames the Little Parliament, the Nominated Assembly, and the Parliament of Saints, convened on July 4, 1653. It represented a critical, albeit brief, attempt by the English Commonwealth to establish a stable governmental structure following the tumultuous period after King Charles I's execution. This assembly was unique in that its members were not elected but were entirely nominated by Oliver Cromwell and the Army's Council of Officers, marking a significant departure from traditional parliamentary selection processes.

Temporal Context

This parliamentary experiment concluded on December 12, 1653, just over five months after its inception. Its dissolution paved the way for the establishment of Oliver Cromwell's rule as Lord Protector. Barebone's Parliament followed the controversial dissolution of the Rump Parliament and preceded the First Protectorate Parliament, positioning it as a pivotal, transitional body in the complex political landscape of mid-17th century England.

The Figurehead

The assembly acquired its most enduring and widely recognized name, "Barebone's Parliament," from one of its nominated members: Praise-God Barebone. A leather seller and lay preacher from London, Barebone was a prominent figure within the more radical religious factions of the time. While he was not the sole leader, his distinctive name became synonymous with the assembly, often used by its detractors to mock its perceived radicalism and unconventional composition.

Genesis: The Need for a New Assembly

Post-Rump Vacuum

Following the execution of King Charles I, the Rump Parliament remained as the sole governing body. However, it faced significant criticism for its perceived lack of popular representation and its slow progress on enacting much-needed reforms. The Rump's enactment of the Navigation Act, which contributed to the First Anglo-Dutch War, further fueled discontent and the desire for a more representative and effective government. The Rump made no substantial moves towards its own dissolution, creating a political impasse.

Debating the Form

The forced dissolution of the Rump Parliament on April 20, 1653, left a legislative void. Oliver Cromwell and the Council of Officers found themselves tasked with establishing a new form of government. Influential figures like John Lambert advocated for a smaller governing council, while Thomas Harrison, a fervent Fifth Monarchist, argued for a body composed of "godly men" to hasten the coming of Christ's kingdom. This led to the proposal of an assembly of 140 representatives, a number possibly inspired by the biblical Sanhedrin, intended to represent England, Scotland, and Ireland.

The Nomination Process

The Council of Officers decided that members would be chosen by the council itself, with Cromwell, as commander-in-chief, vesting power in the assembly. While historical accounts suggest consultation with congregational churches for nominations, definitive evidence of a widespread consultation process is scarce. Ultimately, the selection was driven by the Council of Officers and their members, leading to a list of candidates that would form the unique composition of the Nominated Assembly.

Membership and Inauguration

The Assembly Convenes

The Nominated Assembly first met on July 4, 1653, in the council chamber at Whitehall. Oliver Cromwell delivered a lengthy opening speech, reflecting on the "series of Providences" that had led to this moment and emphasizing the spiritual significance of the occasion. The assembly then elected Francis Rous as its chairman (later recognized as Speaker) and appointed Henry Scobell as Clerk. Cromwell and four other officers were co-opted as members. On July 12, the assembly formally declared itself the Parliament of England.

Composition and Perception

The assembly quickly drew criticism and ridicule, with contemporary accounts derisively labeling its members as "Pettifoggers, Innkeepers, Millwrights, Stockingmongers." This perception was heavily influenced by figures like Praise-God Barebone. However, historical analysis reveals a more nuanced reality: the majority of members were drawn from the upper echelons of society, with few actual tradesmen represented. While religious radicals, including about twelve Fifth Monarchists, were present, they were balanced by a significant number of moderate Independents, indicating a diverse, though perhaps ideologically divided, membership.

Key Figures

Among the nominated members were four regicides: Oliver Cromwell himself, Thomas Harrison (a leading Fifth Monarchist), Anthony Stapley, and John Carew. The presence of these individuals underscored the assembly's connection to the revolutionary government and its more radical elements, contributing to both its perceived legitimacy among supporters and its notoriety among opponents.

Internal Strife and Contentious Debates

The Tithes Controversy

One of the most divisive issues confronting the assembly was the question of tithes. Many religious sects objected to the established system of tithes, viewing them as a remnant of Catholicism and a burden that supported a professional clergy rather than voluntary ministry. While there was general consensus that the existing system was flawed, finding agreement on an alternative revenue mechanism proved exceedingly difficult. This debate quickly spilled beyond the assembly, with churches across the country petitioning on the matter.

Legal and Judicial Reform

Further conflict arose over proposals for legal and judicial reform. Fifth Monarchists advocated for a legal system strictly based on scriptural law, clashing with those who favored more progressive reforms, such as former members of the Rump's Hale Commission. The controversial trial of John Lilburne also emerged as a point of contention, failing to unite the assembly's disparate factions.

Cromwell's Frustration

By early September, Oliver Cromwell expressed growing frustration with the internal divisions and infighting. Reports suggest he lamented being "more troubled now with the fool than before now with the knave," indicating his disappointment with the assembly's perceived ineffectiveness and ideological disputes. Declining attendance further exacerbated these concerns, with the number of members present dropping significantly from July to October. The inability to resolve key legislative issues, such as reforms to the Court of Chancery and the Court of Admiralty, highlighted the assembly's paralysis.

Dissolution and Transition

The Vote Against Tithes

The escalating conflict culminated in December 1653. On December 6, a committee's report on tithes, which proposed retaining them under specific circumstances and outlined procedures for ejecting "unfit ministers," was narrowly defeated by a vote of 56 to 54. This marked a significant setback for the moderate faction within the assembly.

Abdication and Intervention

Two days later, on December 12, a group of moderate members, critical of the radical faction's perceived disruption, approached Cromwell at Whitehall. They presented a document signed by nearly 80 members, declaring that the continuation of the assembly "as now constituted, will not be for the good of the Commonwealth." Following this, troops entered the parliamentary chamber, and the remaining members were effectively compelled to dissolve the assembly.

Paving the Way for the Protectorate

The collapse of the Nominated Assembly created an opportunity for the dominant "Grandees" within the New Model Army. They swiftly moved to establish a new constitutional framework, drafting the Instrument of Government. This document formally vested executive power in Oliver Cromwell as Lord Protector, ushering in a new phase of rule in the English Commonwealth.

Legacy and Historical Significance

An Experiment in Governance

Barebone's Parliament stands as a fascinating, albeit short-lived, experiment in governance during a period of profound political upheaval. Its nominated nature and the radical religious leanings of some members made it a target for criticism, yet it also reflected the diverse and evolving political thought of the era. The assembly grappled with fundamental questions about representation, religious freedom, and the structure of government.

Lessons Learned

The ultimate failure of the Nominated Assembly to achieve lasting stability highlighted the challenges of forging consensus among disparate factions in a revolutionary period. Its dissolution and the subsequent rise of the Protectorate demonstrated the military's significant influence over political developments. The parliament's legacy lies in its unique attempt to create a godly government and its role as a precursor to more formalized constitutional arrangements under Cromwell's rule.

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References

The members were Lambert, Harrison, Cromwell, Desborough, Strickland, Pickering, Sydenham, Carew, Stapley, Bennett, Tomlinson, Jones, and Moyer.

See discussion and particularly (Woolrych 1982, pp. 148â149, n. 17)

A full list of references for this article are available at the Barebone's Parliament Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. Historical interpretations can vary, and this content reflects one perspective derived from the provided source.

This is not historical or political advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical research or consultation with academic experts. Always consult primary sources and scholarly works for a comprehensive understanding of historical events.

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The Nominated Assembly

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview 🏛️

📜 A Unique Legislature

⏳ Temporal Context

👤 The Figurehead

Genesis: The Need for a New Assembly 📜

⚖️ Post-Rump Vacuum

🗣️ Debating the Form

✍️ The Nomination Process

Membership and Inauguration 👤

✨ The Assembly Convenes

🧐 Composition and Perception

👑 Key Figures

Internal Strife and Contentious Debates 💥

💰 The Tithes Controversy

⚖️ Legal and Judicial Reform

😔 Cromwell's Frustration

Dissolution and Transition ⏳

📉 The Vote Against Tithes

🚶‍♂️ Abdication and Intervention

➡️ Paving the Way for the Protectorate

Legacy and Historical Significance 📈

🤔 An Experiment in Governance

💡 Lessons Learned

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

A Unique Legislature

Temporal Context

The Figurehead

Genesis: The Need for a New Assembly

Post-Rump Vacuum

Debating the Form

The Nomination Process

Membership and Inauguration

The Assembly Convenes

Composition and Perception

Key Figures

Internal Strife and Contentious Debates

The Tithes Controversy

Legal and Judicial Reform

Cromwell's Frustration

Dissolution and Transition

The Vote Against Tithes

Abdication and Intervention

Paving the Way for the Protectorate

Legacy and Historical Significance

An Experiment in Governance

Lessons Learned

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice