Who was Samuel Rawson Gardiner and what was his primary historical focus?

Samuel Rawson Gardiner was an English historian, born on March 4, 1829, and who died on February 24, 1902. He is recognized as a prominent foundational historian specializing in 17th-century English history, particularly the Puritan revolution and the English Civil War.

What was the educational background of Samuel Rawson Gardiner?

Samuel Rawson Gardiner received his education at Winchester College and subsequently attended Christ Church, Oxford. At Oxford, he achieved a first-class degree in Literae Humaniores, a rigorous course of study focusing on classical literature, philosophy, and history.

What academic positions and honors did Samuel Rawson Gardiner hold?

Gardiner held fellowships at All Souls College (elected 1884) and Merton College (elected 1892) at Oxford University. He also served as a professor of modern history at King's College London for several years. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded honorary degrees, including D.C.L. from Oxford and LL.D. from Edinburgh, and was elected to give the first series of Ford Lectures at Oxford in 1896.

Describe the scope and structure of Samuel Rawson Gardiner's major historical work on the Puritan Revolution and English Civil War.

Gardiner's monumental history of the Puritan Revolution and the English Civil War was published in three main series, totaling nineteen volumes. This extensive work began with the accession of King James I of England and covered the period up to the Restoration. His treatment of the subject was characterized as exhaustive and philosophical, delving into political, constitutional, religious, and intellectual history.

What were the specific titles and publication periods of the main series of Gardiner's history?

The three principal series of Gardiner's history were: 'History of England from the Accession of James I to the Outbreak of the Civil War, 1603–1642' (10 volumes, published between 1883 and 1884, with later editions); 'History of the Great Civil War, 1642–1649' (initially 5 volumes, later revised to 4 volumes, published between 1893 and 1905); and 'History of the Commonwealth and Protectorate, 1649–1660' (4 volumes, published between 1897 and 1903).

How did Gardiner's historical work extend beyond political and constitutional history?

Gardiner's work was comprehensive, encompassing not only political and constitutional history but also significant changes in religion, thought, and sentiment during the 17th century. He meticulously examined the causes and tendencies of these shifts, providing a holistic view of the era.

Where did Samuel Rawson Gardiner conduct his historical research?

Gardiner undertook extensive research, utilizing many sources that existed only in manuscript form. His tireless efforts included delving into public and private manuscript collections within England, as well as archives in Simancas, Venice, Rome, Brussels, and Paris, demonstrating a commitment to primary source material.

What potential personal connection might have influenced Gardiner's focus on the 17th century?

It is suggested that Samuel Rawson Gardiner may have been drawn to the 17th-century period because he was a descendant of prominent figures from that era, Oliver Cromwell and Henry Ireton. However, his historical judgments were reportedly unbiased.

How did Gardiner approach the analysis of historical figures?

Despite any personal lineage connections, Gardiner's analyses of historical characters were noted for their unbiased nature, fine perception, and broad sympathies. He applied this approach to figures such as James I, Francis Bacon, William Laud, Thomas Wentworth, and Oliver Cromwell.

What was Gardiner's perspective on constitutional matters and political philosophy?

Gardiner wrote about constitutional matters with an insight derived from the study of political philosophy. He masterfully discussed the idealistic visions of theorists and the practical governmental schemes proposed by statesmen of the period.

How did Gardiner's research contribute to understanding diplomacy and European history?

Gardiner's detailed record of England's relations with other European states showcased his thorough knowledge of contemporary European history. His research in manuscript sources allowed him to elucidate intricate diplomatic affairs that had not been previously explained.

What criticisms were leveled against the detailed nature of Gardiner's historical writing?

Some critics felt that the extreme minuteness of Gardiner's narrative detracted from its overall interest. Additionally, the arrangement of his work sometimes led to the thread of a subject being broken by the intrusion of unrelated incidents, requiring effort from the reader to reconnect.

How was Gardiner's writing style described, and what was its primary appeal?

Gardiner's writing style was characterized as clear and unadorned, with a resemblance to the Roman historian Tacitus. His work primarily appealed to the intellect rather than the emotions, and while generally not picturesque, he could write with pathos and dignity when describing significant scenes, such as the execution of Charles I.

What was noted about Gardiner's work lacking enthusiasm?

Despite its sterling excellence, Gardiner's work was sometimes described as lacking enthusiasm, which could leave the reader feeling cold or unmoved. This perceived lack of emotional engagement was seen as a defect stemming from his supreme qualities of fairness and critical ability.

How was Gardiner's historical scholarship formally recognized?

Gardiner's standing as a historian was formally acknowledged through various honors. He received a civil list pension of £150 per annum in 1882 for his contributions to English history. He also held honorary degrees from Oxford and Edinburgh, and an honorary fellowship at Christ Church, Oxford.

Why did Samuel Rawson Gardiner decline the Regius Professorship of Modern History at Oxford?

Gardiner declined the prestigious appointment of Regius Professor of Modern History at Oxford in 1894. He did so because he feared that the duties associated with the professorship would interfere with his ability to complete his extensive historical work.

What did historian John Morrill state about Gardiner's historical methodology?

Historian John Morrill praised Samuel Rawson Gardiner, stating that he was a brilliant historian. Morrill highlighted Gardiner's meticulous testing of the veracity, accuracy, and biases of every source, and his careful, clear exposition of evidence, which Morrill considered unparalleled for any historical period.

What is a significant modern study on Samuel Rawson Gardiner?

A standard modern study on Samuel Rawson Gardiner is Mark Nixon's book, 'Samuel Rawson Gardiner and the Idea of History,' published by the Royal Historical Society and Boydell Press in 2010.

Why is Gardiner's evaluation of Oliver Cromwell considered particularly significant?

Gardiner's evaluation of Oliver Cromwell is considered especially significant because Gardiner was a foremost historian of that era. His in-depth study and analysis of Cromwell provide a crucial perspective on one of England's most debated historical figures.

What positive aspects of Oliver Cromwell's character and aims did Gardiner identify?

Gardiner concluded that Oliver Cromwell was a noble figure whose personal character surpassed his achievements. He believed Cromwell possessed a resolution to subordinate self-interest to public ends and material desires to moral and spiritual objectives.

What limitations did Gardiner perceive in Oliver Cromwell's character and his political endeavors?

Gardiner acknowledged that Cromwell was limited by the inherent defects found even in the noblest and wisest individuals, as well as by the unwillingness of his contemporaries to adopt his ideas. Specifically, Gardiner cited Cromwell's failure to establish a permanent government due to public offense taken at the army's political interference and the reaction against the spiritual claims of Puritanism.

According to Gardiner, what was the nature of the reaction against Cromwell's system of government?

Gardiner argued that the reaction against Cromwell's government was not primarily against his religious doctrines or ecclesiastical institutions. Instead, it was a reaction against militarism and against the perceived imposition of an excessively high moral and religious standard, a standard that applied to Puritanism and any other religion seeking state enforcement.

How did Gardiner assess Oliver Cromwell's effectiveness in foreign policy?

Gardiner noted that Cromwell's mistake in applying high moral standards was more conspicuous in foreign dealings due to his lesser knowledge of international conditions. While Cromwell made England feared in Europe, Gardiner suggested it was more accurate to say he made her feared rather than universally respected.

How did Gardiner believe Cromwell's claim to greatness could be tested over time?

Gardiner proposed that Cromwell's claim to greatness could be tested by the fact that his character receives higher and wider appreciation as centuries pass. The limitations of his nature and policies become less significant, while the nobility of his motives, strength of character, and breadth of intellect become more apparent to subsequent generations.

What enduring contributions of Oliver Cromwell did Gardiner highlight?

Gardiner emphasized Cromwell's constancy of effort to make England great by land and sea. He also pointed to Cromwell's persistent efforts to make England worthy of that greatness, suggesting a dual focus on national power and moral integrity.

How many times did Samuel Rawson Gardiner marry, and who were his wives?

Samuel Rawson Gardiner married twice. His first wife was Isabell Irving, the daughter of Reverend Edward Irving. After her death in 1878, he married Bertha Cordey, also a historian, in 1883.

What was the subject of Gardiner's book titled 'What Gunpowder Plot Was'?

Samuel Rawson Gardiner authored a book titled 'What Gunpowder Plot Was,' published in 1897. This work likely examined the historical events and context surrounding the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.

What was Gardiner's role in the publications of the Navy Records Society?

Samuel Rawson Gardiner edited the first two volumes of the 'Letters and papers relating to the First Dutch War, 1652–1654' for the Navy Records Society. He also co-edited Volume 3 with C. T. Atkinson.

What other editorial positions did Samuel Rawson Gardiner hold?

In addition to his editorial work for the Navy Records Society, Samuel Rawson Gardiner served as the editor of the 'English Historical Review' starting in 1891. He also edited collections of papers for the Camden Society.

What is the significance of the image caption provided in the source material?

The image caption identifies the photograph as 'Samuel Rawson Gardiner, National Portrait Gallery.' This indicates that the accompanying image is a portrait of Samuel Rawson Gardiner, likely housed in the National Portrait Gallery, providing a visual representation of the historian.

What is the title of Gardiner's biography of Oliver Cromwell?

Samuel Rawson Gardiner wrote a biography titled 'Oliver Cromwell,' which was published in multiple editions between 1899 and 1903.

How did Gardiner's work on the Commonwealth and Protectorate period get completed after his death?

Following Samuel Rawson Gardiner's death, his extensive work on the Commonwealth and Protectorate was completed by Charles Harding Firth. Firth finished the series with two volumes titled 'The Last Years of the Protectorate,' published in 1909.

What does the 'Authority control' section indicate about Gardiner's recognition?

The 'Authority control' section lists various international and national databases where Samuel Rawson Gardiner is cataloged, such as ISNI, VIAF, Library of Congress, and national libraries worldwide. This indicates that he is a recognized and significant figure whose works and identity are formally indexed across global library and archival systems.

What specific historical period did Gardiner's 'History of England from the Accession of James I to the Outbreak of the Civil War' cover?

Gardiner's 'History of England from the Accession of James I to the Outbreak of the Civil War' specifically covers the period from 1603 to 1642. This extensive work details the political, religious, and social landscape leading up to the English Civil War.

What was Gardiner's approach to the 'dreams of idealists and the schemes of government' proposed by statesmen?

Gardiner discussed the 'dreams of idealists and the schemes of government proposed by statesmen' in a masterful fashion, demonstrating his deep understanding of political philosophy and historical context. He analyzed these ideas within the broader narrative of constitutional development.

How did Gardiner utilize obscure writings in his research?

Gardiner found much of his source material in the writings of obscure pamphleteers. He believed these writings were valuable indicators of the currents of public opinion during the periods he studied.

What is the significance of Gardiner's work on the 'Constitutional Documents of the Puritan Revolution'?

Gardiner compiled and published 'The Constitutional Documents of the Puritan Revolution, 1628–1660.' This collection is significant as it provides primary source material essential for understanding the legal and political framework underpinning the revolutionary period in England.

What was Gardiner's view on the revival of absolute monarchy or parliamentary authority?

Gardiner noted that Cromwell's actions had enduring effects, leading to a situation where few people wished for the revival of absolute kingship, the absolute authority of a single House of Parliament, or the Laudian system of church governance. This suggests Cromwell's impact weakened these older forms of power.

What did Gardiner suggest about the 'living forces of England' during Cromwell's time?

Gardiner observed that the 'living forces of England,' which were pushing against the old barriers, buoyed up Cromwell. He likened Cromwell to a strong swimmer carried forward by the tide of these progressive forces.

What specific historical event did Gardiner describe with pathos and dignity?

While Gardiner's style generally appealed to the intellect, he wrote with pathos and dignity when describing certain famous scenes, such as the execution of Charles I.

What does the mention of 'Project Gutenberg' and 'Internet Archive' in the External Links section imply?

The inclusion of links to Project Gutenberg and the Internet Archive suggests that Samuel Rawson Gardiner's works are in the public domain and are readily accessible digitally. This allows modern readers to easily access and study his historical writings.

What is the purpose of the 'Authority control' section at the end of the article?

The 'Authority control' section serves to link the article's subject, Samuel Rawson Gardiner, to various international and national databases. This helps to uniquely identify him and provides access to related resources, ensuring consistency and aiding further research.

What does the reference to 'LibriVox' indicate about Gardiner's works?

The mention of LibriVox indicates that some of Samuel Rawson Gardiner's works are available as public domain audiobooks. This platform offers spoken versions of books, making them accessible to a wider audience, including those who prefer listening to reading.

How did Gardiner's research into manuscript sources enhance his work on diplomacy?

Gardiner's extensive research into manuscript sources enabled him to expound for the first time on some intricate pieces of diplomacy. This deep dive into primary documents provided new insights and a more detailed understanding of international relations during his period of study.

What was the nature of Gardiner's engagement with the writings of obscure pamphleteers?

Gardiner actively sought out and utilized the writings of obscure pamphleteers as a source of information. He believed these less prominent texts were crucial for understanding the underlying currents of public opinion and sentiment during the historical periods he investigated.

What does the citation to the 'Oxford Dictionary of National Biography' signify?

The citation to the 'Oxford Dictionary of National Biography' (ODNB) signifies that Samuel Rawson Gardiner is a subject of biographical record within this authoritative collection of information on notable British figures. It provides a scholarly overview of his life and contributions.

Samuel Rawson Gardiner Wiki: The Chronicler of Cromwell: Samuel Rawson Gardiner's Scholarly Legacy

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Who Was S.R. Gardiner?

Academic Foundations

Samuel Rawson Gardiner (1829–1902) was a distinguished English historian renowned for his profound specialization in 17th-century English history. His academic journey began at Winchester College, followed by Christ Church, Oxford, where he achieved a first-class degree in Literae Humaniores. His scholarly prowess was further recognized through fellowships at prestigious institutions, including All Souls College (1884) and Merton College (1892).

Career and Dedication

For a significant period, Gardiner served as a professor of modern history at King's College London, dedicating his life to the rigorous study and interpretation of historical events. His commitment to scholarship was further underscored by his selection to deliver the inaugural series of Ford Lectures at Oxford University in 1896. He passed away in Sevenoaks at the age of 72, leaving behind a monumental body of work.

The Puritan Revolution

A Monumental History

Gardiner's magnum opus is his comprehensive history of the Puritan Revolution and the English Civil War, published across nineteen volumes. This extensive series meticulously chronicles the period from the accession of King James I of England through to the establishment of the Commonwealth and Protectorate. The final volumes were completed posthumously by Charles Harding Firth.

Exhaustive Research and Scope

The series includes: History of England from the Accession of James I to the Outbreak of the Civil War, 1603–1642 (10 vols.); History of the Great Civil War, 1642–1649 (5 vols.); and History of the Commonwealth and Protectorate, 1649–1660 (4 vols.). Gardiner's treatment is characterized by its exhaustive and philosophical approach, encompassing political, constitutional, religious, and intellectual history. His tireless research extended to public and private manuscript collections across England and archives in Simancas, Venice, Rome, Brussels, and Paris.

Historical Methodology & Analysis

Insight and Interpretation

Gardiner's work delves deeply into constitutional matters, demonstrating an understanding informed by political philosophy. He masterfully discusses the idealistic visions and governmental schemes proposed by statesmen of the era. His scholarship highlights the progression of human thought, particularly in moral, religious, and political concepts, with a notable focus on the emergence and development of religious toleration, often drawing insights from obscure contemporary pamphlets reflecting public opinion.

International Context and Style

His detailed accounts of England's relations with other European states reveal a profound grasp of contemporary continental history. Gardiner's research into manuscript sources enabled him to illuminate intricate diplomatic affairs for the first time. His writing style is characterized by clarity and an unadorned, intellectual appeal, reminiscent of Tacitus. While seldom picturesque, he could convey pathos and dignity, as seen in his description of Charles I's execution.

Strengths and Criticisms

While lauded for his fairness and critical acumen, Gardiner's work has been noted for its minute detail, which some find detracts from narrative flow. Occasionally, the thread of a subject might be interrupted by tangential incidents. Despite a perceived lack of overt enthusiasm, his writing is marked by loftiness of thought, a commitment to purity and truth, and refined taste, making his scholarship a sterling example of historical rigor.

Evaluating Oliver Cromwell

A Complex Legacy

Gardiner's assessment of Oliver Cromwell is particularly significant, given the figure's contentious historical reception. Gardiner concluded that Cromwell was a noble individual whose character transcended his achievements. He noted Cromwell's resolution to prioritize public and moral ends, acknowledging the limitations inherent in even the noblest human intellects and the resistance of his contemporaries to his vision.

Statesmanship and Perception

Gardiner identified two primary reasons for Cromwell's failure to establish a lasting government: the public's resentment of military interference in politics and a societal reaction against the perceived moral rigor of Puritanism. He argued that Cromwell's foreign policy, while making England "feared" in Europe, was driven by a less nuanced understanding of international dynamics compared to his domestic policy. Gardiner observed that Cromwell's legacy, marked by his constancy in striving for England's greatness, receives increasing appreciation over time.

Scholarly Recognition

Accolades and Honors

Gardiner's immense contributions to historical scholarship were widely acknowledged. In 1882, he received a civil list pension of £150 per annum in recognition of his valuable contributions to English history. He was awarded honorary degrees, including D.C.L. from Oxford and LL.D. from Edinburgh, and held an honorary fellowship as a Student of Christ Church, Oxford. His academic standing was further cemented when he declined the prestigious position of Regius Professor of Modern History at Oxford, prioritizing the completion of his historical magnum opus.

Editorial Influence

Beyond his monumental historical narratives, Gardiner played a crucial role in shaping historical discourse through his editorial work. He served as editor for collections of papers for the Camden Society and, significantly, was the editor of the esteemed English Historical Review from 1891 onwards. This role placed him at the forefront of historical scholarship, influencing the direction and standards of the discipline.

Key Publications

Major Works

Samuel Rawson Gardiner authored numerous significant works, primarily focused on the pivotal period of 17th-century English history. His extensive bibliography reflects a lifetime dedicated to meticulous research and detailed narrative construction.

History of England from the Accession of James I to the Disgrace of Chief-justice Coke. 1602–1616 (1863) read online
Prince Charles and the Spanish Marriage, 1617–1623 (2 vols.) (1869) read online
The Thirty Years' War, 1618–1648 (1874) read online
History of England from the Accession of James I to the Outbreak of the Civil War, 1603–1642 (10 vols.) (1883–1884, 1896–1901, 1904–1908) read online
History of the Great Civil War, 1642–1649 (4 vols.) (1886–1891, 1893–1894, 1904–1905) read online
The Constitutional Documents of the Puritan Revolution, 1628–1660 (1889, 1906, 1951) read online
A Student's History of England, from the Earliest Times to 1885 (2 vols.) (1890–1891, 1895–1897) read online
The Hanoverian Period (1891) read online
Outline of English History B.C. 55 – A.D. 1886 (1891) read online
A School Atlas of English History (ed.) (1892) read online
History of the Commonwealth and Protectorate, 1649–1660 (4 vols.) (1897–1901, 1894–1903) read online
What Gunpowder Plot Was (1897) read online
Letters and papers relating to the First Dutch War, 1652–1654 (ed., 2 vols.) (1898–1930)
Oliver Cromwell (1899, 1901, 1903) read online
Prince Rupert at Lisbon (ed.) (1902) read online
Outline of English History B.C. 55 – A.D. 1902 (1903, 1905) read online

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References

John Morrill, "Protectorate of Cromwell," in David Loades, ed., Reader's Guide to British History (2003) 2:1074

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The Chronicler of Cromwell

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Who Was S.R. Gardiner? 👨‍🏫

🎓 Academic Foundations

🏛️ Career and Dedication

The Puritan Revolution ⚔️

📚 A Monumental History

🔍 Exhaustive Research and Scope

Historical Methodology & Analysis 🧐

💡 Insight and Interpretation

🌍 International Context and Style

⚖️ Strengths and Criticisms

Evaluating Oliver Cromwell 👤

⭐ A Complex Legacy

🌐 Statesmanship and Perception

Scholarly Recognition 🏆

🏅 Accolades and Honors

📰 Editorial Influence

Key Publications 📚

📖 Major Works

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Who Was S.R. Gardiner?

Academic Foundations

Career and Dedication

The Puritan Revolution

A Monumental History

Exhaustive Research and Scope

Historical Methodology & Analysis

Insight and Interpretation

International Context and Style

Strengths and Criticisms

Evaluating Oliver Cromwell

A Complex Legacy

Statesmanship and Perception

Scholarly Recognition

Accolades and Honors

Editorial Influence

Key Publications

Major Works

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice