The contribution of the parliamentary press to Oliver Cromwell’s image as a military hero of the first English Civil War

Abstract

Abstract This article examines the parliamentary press’s role in promoting Oliver Cromwell’s heroic image during the first civil war, a topic that has received relatively little scholarly attention. Based on a detailed study of contemporary pamphlets and newsbooks, it suggests three phases of press coverage that correspond to the conflict’s campaigning seasons. It shows that Cromwell’s image in print was greatly assisted by his close relationship with the Independent leadership at Westminster, and their expertise in the manipulation of the press. For them, Cromwell’s successes in the field were essential for securing victory. His military reputation, initially nurtured by the civil war press, laid the foundations for his eventual role as lord protector.