Oliver Cromwell Quotes

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About Oliver Cromwell

Oliver Cromwell Quotes, not to be confused with Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. or Oliver Goldsmith, is a fictitious character used here to represent the historical figure Oliver Cromwell (1599-1658), a significant political leader in the history of England during the 17th century. Born on April 25, 1599, in Huntingdon, England, Oliver Cromwell was raised in a Puritan family and received little formal education. However, his upbringing instilled in him strong religious convictions, which played a significant role in shaping his political career. He began his professional life as a farmer but later ventured into politics and military service during the English Civil War (1642-1651). Cromwell was instrumental in leading the Parliamentarian forces to victory against King Charles I, culminating in the monarch's execution in 1649. This marked the end of the monarchy as it had existed for centuries and the beginning of England as a republic under Cromwell's control. Cromwell served as Lord Protector from 1653 until his death, ruling with a blend of military discipline and religious fervor. His major works include the implementation of significant social and economic reforms, including the dissolution of the Church of England and the establishment of the Commonwealth of England (1649-1653) and Protectorate (1653-1658). Oliver Cromwell's legacy remains controversial. While some view him as a heroic figure who led England out of religious tyranny, others see him as a ruthless dictator responsible for widespread persecution during the interregnum. Quotes attributed to Oliver Cromwell, such as "I beseech you, in the bowels of Christ, think it possible you may be mistaken," encapsulate his deep religious convictions and pragmatic political approach. Despite the debate surrounding his character, Oliver Cromwell undeniably left an indelible mark on English history.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I beseech you, in the bowels of Christ, think it possible you may be mistaken."

This quote by Oliver Cromwell emphasizes humility and open-mindedness, suggesting that even one as powerful as himself might be wrong or incorrect in his beliefs or actions. He urges others to consider the possibility of error in their own perspectives, reminding them to maintain a level of empathy, understanding, and tolerance towards opposing views. This quote underscores the importance of maintaining an open dialogue and avoiding dogmatism or close-mindedness in any situation, particularly when dealing with others.


"You have sat too long here for any good you have been doing. Depart, I say, and let us have done with you. In the name of God, go!"

This quote by Oliver Cromwell is a call to action or dismissal, urging someone to leave their position due to perceived ineffectiveness. It suggests that the person has overstayed their welcome and it's time for change, invoking the power of God as a justification. Essentially, it implies that the status quo is no longer beneficial, and it's time to bring fresh perspectives and new ideas into the picture.


"I hear it said that the Army is too powerful; but as the Truth is strong, we can bear a great deal of power, and truth is the more powerful from being joined with power."

This quote by Oliver Cromwell suggests that while power in the form of military might can be influential, it is truth that ultimately holds greater strength. He implies that when truth is combined with power, its impact becomes even more potent. The Army (or power) he refers to may symbolize any formidable force, but its effectiveness depends on the foundation of truth upon which it stands. In other words, might for righteous causes is stronger than brute force alone.


"It is high time for me to put an end to your long and tedious labours, and to deliver you out of the afflictive servitude you live in, and set you free."

This quote by Oliver Cromwell signifies a desire to bring an end to prolonged suffering and oppression, offering liberation and freedom instead. It implies that the people under his charge are enduring hardship for too long and it is now time for relief and emancipation.


"By the help of God, I will ride over the highest that tries to hinder me."

This quote by Oliver Cromwell conveys his unwavering determination and resolute spirit in the face of adversity. He is expressing his commitment to overcome any obstacle, no matter how high or powerful it may be, with divine assistance guiding him along the way. It symbolizes a fierce perseverance, a refusal to yield, and an unshakable belief in one's mission or goal.


Not only strike while the iron is hot, but make it hot by striking.

- Oliver Cromwell

Brainy, Only, Strike, Striking

A few honest men are better than numbers.

- Oliver Cromwell

Men, Better, Veterans Day, Honest Men

Necessity has no law.

- Oliver Cromwell

Law, Necessity, No Law

God made them as stubble to our swords.

- Oliver Cromwell

God, Made, Them, Swords

The State, in choosing men to serve it, takes no notice of their opinions. If they be willing faithfully to serve it, that satisfies.

- Oliver Cromwell

Men, Willing, Faithfully, Satisfies

I would have been glad to have lived under my wood side, and to have kept a flock of sheep, rather than to have undertaken this government.

- Oliver Cromwell

Been, Flock, Side, Wood

Do not trust the cheering, for those persons would shout as much if you or I were going to be hanged.

- Oliver Cromwell

Trust, Going, Cheering, Hanged

What is all our histories, but God showing himself, shaking and trampling on everything that he has not planted.

- Oliver Cromwell

Everything, Himself, Planted, Histories

No one rises so high as he who knows not whither he is going.

- Oliver Cromwell

High, Going, He, Rises

We are Englishmen; that is one good fact.

- Oliver Cromwell

Good, Fact, Englishmen

Who can love to walk in the dark? But providence doth often so dispose.

- Oliver Cromwell

Love, Dark, Doth, Providence

Subtlety may deceive you; integrity never will.

- Oliver Cromwell

Brainy, Never, Subtlety, Deceive

I had rather have a plain, russet-coated Captain, that knows what he fights for, and loves what he knows, than that which you call a Gentle-man and is nothing else.

- Oliver Cromwell

Rather, Fights, Which, Plain

Nature can do more than physicians.

- Oliver Cromwell

Nature, Medical, More, Physicians

I beseech you, in the bowels of Christ, think it possible you may be mistaken.

- Oliver Cromwell

Think, Christ, May, Mistaken

Put your trust in God; but be sure to keep your powder dry.

- Oliver Cromwell

Trust, Keep, Sure, Dry

Keep your faith in God, but keep your powder dry.

- Oliver Cromwell

Faith, Keep, Your, Dry

He who stops being better stops being good.

- Oliver Cromwell

Good, Better, Being, Stops

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