John Lambert, Parliamentary Soldier and Cromwellian Major-General, 1619-1684

This biography explores the life of John Lambert, a key figure in the New Model Army, who played a significant role in Oliver Cromwell's rise to power and his eventual refusal of kingship.

John Lambert, Parliamentary Soldier and Cromwellian Major-General, 1619-1684 offers an insightful biography of a key figure in the New Model Army. John Lambert played a crucial role in the political landscape of 17th-century England, notably by facilitating Oliver Cromwell's rise to Lord Protector while simultaneously preventing him from becoming king. This study delves into Lambert's life and career, highlighting his significant contributions to the establishment of the Instrument of Government, which underpinned Cromwell's Protectorate.

Lambert emerged as a prominent figure during the English Civil Wars, gaining recognition as a skilled cavalry commander between 1642 and 1651. His commitment to radical beliefs and the ideals of the New Model Army propelled him to the forefront of military and political affairs. In 1655, he was instrumental in the creation of the Major Generals, a governing body that sought to enforce order and uphold the army's influence in England. However, his opposition to Cromwell's aspirations for kingship led to a temporary fall from grace.

Following Cromwell's death, Lambert's radical ideas positioned him as a potential successor, yet they also alienated him from some of his allies. His imprisonment in the Tower in 1660 marked a significant turning point, but his escape and subsequent efforts to mount a republican resistance against Charles II showcased his enduring commitment to his principles. Ultimately convicted of treason, Lambert's life reflects the complexities of a man whose actions and beliefs transcended mere military ambition, revealing a character deeply engaged in the political struggles of his time.