Oliver Cromwell’s Legacy: The Myths and Realities of His Aftermath

Oliver Cromwell, a prominent figure in the English Civil War, is often the subject of numerous historical misconceptions. This article aims to clarify common myths about Cromwell and his demise, focusing on the true events surrounding his posthumous fate and the misconceptions that have emerged over time.

Myth: Oliver Cromwell Was Tried for a Crime

One of the most persistent myths is that Oliver Cromwell was tried for a crime. In reality, Cromwell died in his sleep at the age of 59, having served as Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Wales, and Ireland. He passed away on September 3, 1658. The bizarre legend that began soon after his death asserts that Cromwell was tried for crimes, but this could not be further from the truth. Cromwell died peacefully in his bed and was buried with the grandeur expected of a person in his position, complete with quasi-regal pomp, in Westminster Abbey. His burial marked a dignified end to a tumultuous period in British history.

The Restoration: Exhumation and Decapitation

Cromwell’s remains were not left in peace for long. The execution of the myth about his trial is intertwined with the events that transpired following the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660. Charles II, who ascended the throne, sought to restore order and traditional British values. With this in mind, Cromwell's opponents saw an opportunity to establish yet another myth involving his afterlife. In 1661, his tomb in Westminster Abbey was desecrated, leading to the exhumation and decapitation of his remains.

Strange Aftermath: Execution of the Myth

The aftermath of Cromwell’s head and body being executed was indeed quite strenuous. According to reports, his corpse was hung in chains at Tyburn, a notorious public gallows, which is now the site of Marble Arch. The head was preserved and displayed on a pike for several years, earning it the nickname "Cromwell's head." This shocking act was just one of the many ways in which Cromwell’s memory was demonized and distorted.

The Final Rest: A Modern Resolution

In 1960, the chaos of Cromwell’s posthumous execution ended. The head, which had been the subject of decades of misrepresentation, found a final resting place at Sidney Sussex College in Cambridge. The head was buried beneath the floor of the chapel, finally allowing Cromwell to rest in peace. This modern resolution underscores the fact that Cromwell’s legacy should be examined with a critical eye, and that time has finally given him a proper burial.

By examining these myths and realities, we gain a clearer understanding of Oliver Cromwell and his place in history. His life and legacy should be studied objectively, rather than through the lens of largely mythological stories that have developed over the years.