Chapter 7: Emergence of Radical and Religious ideas (political instability and interregnum)

Question 1

how did radical groups and sects make the attitudes of Rump MPs even more conservative

Answer 1

by the perceived threat they posed to the established social order

Question 2

when were there Leveller-inspired mutinies in some army regiments and the affect of them

Answer 2

1649 - added to the sense of post-regicide uncertainty

Question 3

what did Radicalism fuel

Answer 3

fuelled the antagonism between Cromwell, the army and the MPs during the protectorate era

Question 4

example of radicalism continuing to fuel the antagonism between Cromwell, the army and the MPs during the protectorate era

Answer 4

the James Nayler case of 1656

Question 5

what was the James Nayler case of 1656

Answer 5

• Despite Cromwell’s calls for leniency, Nayler was sentenced to be mutilated and imprisoned
• although Cromwell didn’t sympathize with Quakers, he was concerned that Parliments’ persecutory actions would be extended to other religious groups

Question 6

what does Barry Cowards comment about the James Nayler case

Answer 6

he sees it as the primary cause for Cromwell’s controversial decisions

Question 7

what was the consequence of the James Nayler case

Answer 7

• Cromwell abandoned the instrument of government
• re-introduced an unelected upper house in parliament

Question 8

what was the significance of Cromwell re-introducing an unelected upper house in parliament

Answer 8

the members were chosen by himself

Question 9

when did MPs reconvene again and the significance

Answer 9

• MPs reconvened in January 1658
• they debated the issue rather than reforms
• led to Cromwell dissolving the parliament just weeks after