Dimensions
156 x 234 x 35mm
This is a detailed study of Barebone's Parliament - a turning point in history. In this excellent example of how a detailed study of a major episode can illuminate the whole course of politics before and after, Austin Woolrych tells the story of Barebone's Parliament which proved to be a turning point in the troubled history of this period.
His theme is the demise of the republic and the eventual emergence of the quasi-monarchy of Cromwell's Protectorate. In particular he explains why the ideal of a republic, ruled by the people's nominated representatives, failed to take root in England and the people instead resorted to relying on a written constitution. At each stage Woolrych shows how the tension between radical puritanism and moderate constitutionalism provides a unifying theme.
