Major Gordon Corrigan presents a profile of Oliver Cromwell, a captain who overcame his inexperience to lead his Roundhead forces to victory over the Cavaliers in the 17th century. Although most famous for deposing the monarchy and founding British democracy, Cromwell was also notorious for instigating a brutal invasion of Ireland.
Given his lack of background in soldiering, Oliver Cromwell's rise as a military commander was remarkably swift. He reached the top, as he did in politics. He became a Captain in 1642, a Colonel in early 1643, in charge of cavalry of one regional army by the end of that year. Lieutenant General of the New Model Army by 1645 and Lord General for the campaigns in Ireland and Scotland thereafter. Cromwell understood organisation, and that was what made him a good military commander. His belief in training and professionalism was what made the New Model Army what it was.
