Oliver Cromwell was born on 25 April 1599 in Huntingdon, England, to Robert Cromwell and Elizabeth Steward. His family had connections to the prominent Thomas Cromwell, chief minister to Henry VIII. Cromwell's early life was marked by financial struggles and personal challenges, including a brief consideration of emigration to New England. He became a religious Independent in the 1630s, believing his successes were due to divine providence. Cromwell was elected as Member of Parliament (MP) for Huntingdon in 1628 and later for Cambridge in 1640, where he became involved in the political turmoil leading to the English Civil War.When the Civil War began in 1642, Cromwell joined the Parliamentarian army, quickly rising through the ranks due to his military skills. He played a significant role in the formation of the New Model Army and achieved notable victories at the Battles of Marston Moor and Naseby. Following the execution of King Charles I in January 1649, Cromwell became a leading figure in the establishment of the Commonwealth of England and was appointed Lord Protector in December 1653.Cromwell's rule was characterized by military campaigns in Ireland and Scotland. His invasion of Ireland from 1649 to 1650 aimed to suppress the Royalist and Catholic forces, resulting in significant military victories but also controversies due to the brutality of his actions, particularly during the sieges of Drogheda and Wexford. In Scotland, he defeated the forces loyal to Charles II at the Battles of Dunbar and Worcester, effectively ending the Royalist threat in that region.As Lord Protector, Cromwell sought to stabilize the government and implement reforms, but faced opposition from various factions within Parliament. He dissolved the Rump Parliament in April 1653 and later established Barebone's Parliament, which was short-lived. Cromwell's Protectorate was marked by attempts to balance military authority with governance, and he engaged in foreign policy initiatives, including alliances with France.Cromwell's health declined in 1658, and he died on 3 September of that year. His son Richard succeeded him as Lord Protector, but lacked the political support to maintain power, leading to the eventual restoration of the monarchy in 1660. Following his death, Cromwell's body was exhumed and subjected to a posthumous execution in 1661, with his remains displayed as a symbol of the monarchy's return to power. His legacy remains contentious, with debates surrounding his military actions in Ireland and his role in the establishment of the Commonwealth.