Oliver Cromwell is one of the most puzzling and controversial figures in English history. In this excellent introduction, Barry Coward uses Cromwell's own words and actions to analyse the life of Oliver Cromwell as a political figure and look at the historical problems associated with his exercise of power.

Abbreviations and Acknowledgements Introduction 1. The Unknown Cromwell 2. Cromwell and the Civil War, 1642-46 3. The Search for Settlement, 1646-49 4. Cromwell and the Rump, 1649-53 5. Cromwell and the Godly Reformation, 1653-54 6. Parliament and Personal Rule, September 1654- September 1656 7. The Continuing Quest for Settlement and Reformation, September 1656 - September 1658 8. Conclusion List of Dates Bibliographical Essay Index