The Impact of Experiments in Parliamentary Government (1649-1660)

Abolition of the Monarchy and House of Lords: Following the execution of Charles I, England was declared a Commonwealth and the monarchy and House of Lords were abolished. This demonstrated the shift in power to Parliament.
Republicanism and its Challenges: England’s new republican government was unique and faced opposition at home and abroad. The republic faced the challenge of legitimising a radical break from kingship and hereditary power.
Role of Oliver Cromwell: Cromwell played a key role in the Commonwealth as a military and political leader. His controversial role in the dissolution of the Rump Parliament underlined the instability during this period.

Establishment of the Protectorate: In 1653, Cromwell disbanded the Rump Parliament and made himself Lord Protector, essentially a republican monarch, under a new constitution called the Instrument of Government.
Instrument of Government: This was the first written constitution in England’s history but it was never fully accepted or enacted. It aimed to balance power between the executive and legislature by incorporating checks and balances but was weakened by ambiguities and compromises.
Rule of the Major-Generals: From 1655-1657, England was divided into military districts run by Major-Generals. This period was marked by strict Puritan morality and rigorous social control, sparking resentment and opposition.

Collapse of the Protectorate: After Cromwell’s death in 1658, the Protectorate collapsed due to lack of clear leadership and the failure to maintain unity and order.
Return of Charles II: The monarchy was restored in 1660 when Charles II was welcomed back to London. The Restoration was a reaction against the instability and radicalism of the Interregnum period.
Impact on Parliamentary Government: The experiments in parliamentary government during this period were influential in leading to the concept of parliamentary sovereignty. However, they also led to a backlash against radical republicanism, culminating in the Glorious Revolution of 1688.