Question 1
Using these four sources in their historical context, assess how far they support the view that
Cromwell’s actions in Ireland in 1649 were motivated by a belief in ‘God’s Providence’.
Source A: Cromwell reviews the situation in Ireland.
In Ireland all the papists and the King’s party – I cannot say all the papists, but the greater part of them – are in a very strong combination against you. If we do not endeavour to make good our interests there, and in time, we shall not only have our interest rooted out there, but they will in a very short time be able to land forces in England and put us to trouble here. If they shall be able to carry on their work, they will make us the most miserable people in the Earth, for all the world knows their barbarism.
Cromwell, speech to the Council of State, 23 March 1649
Source B: Cromwell explains the massacre at Wexford.
We were intending better to this place [Wexford] than so great a ruin, hoping the town might be of more use to you and your arm, yet God would not have it so; but, by an unexpected providence, in His righteous justice, brought a just judgement upon them; causing them to become a prey to the soldier, who by their piracies had made preys of so many families, and made their bloods to answer the cruelties which they had exercised upon the lives of various poor Protestants. Thus it hath pleased God to give into your hands this other mercy, for which, as for all, we pray God may have all the Glory. Indeed, your instruments are poor and weak, and can do nothing but through believing, and that is the gift of God also.
Cromwell, to the Speaker of the House of Commons, 11 October 1649
Source C: Cromwell reflects on the campaign in Ireland.
A Divine Presence hath gone along with us in the late great transactions in Ireland. To us who are employed as instruments in this work the contentment that appears is that we are doing God’s work, that we have His presence and blessing with us. We find the people very greedy after the Word, and flocking to Christian meetings. It seems that we have a great opportunity to set up, until Parliament shall otherwise determine, a way of doing justice among these poor people, which for the uprightness and cheapness of it may exceedingly gain upon them, who have been accustomed to as much injustice, tyranny and oppression from their landlords as I believe any people in that which we call Christendom.
Cromwell, letter to John Sadler, a Master of the Court of Chancery, 31 December 1649
Source D: Cromwell replies to Irish church leaders’ claim that his aim was to colonise Ireland.
Was the English army brought over to colonise Ireland, as you allege? No, I can give you a better reason for the army coming over than this. England hath had experience of the blessing of God in prosecuting just and righteous causes, whatever the cost and hazard be. And if ever men were engaged in a righteous cause in the world, this will be a scarce second to it. We are come to ask an account of the innocent blood that hath been shed; and to endeavour to bring them to account by the blessing and presence of the Almighty, in whom alone is our hope and strength, who, by appearing in arms, seek to justify the same. We come to break the company of lawless rebels; whose principles are to destroy and subjugate all men not complying with them. We come to hold forth the lustre and glory of English liberty in a nation where we have an undoubted right to do it.
A Declaration of the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland [Cromwell] for the Undeceiving of Deluded and Seduced People, January 1650
[30]
Answer
