The English Civil War, fought between 1642 and 1646, occurred during one of the most turbulent but important periods in British history. Oliver Cromwell (1599–1658) was the leading political figure of this period. A religious visionary and moral reformer, Cromwell believed that the Lord had not only chosen him for a special mission but had also handed him the military success and political power to fulfill that divine task. He became a dazzlingly successful soldier and politician, a man who possessed the power and influence to shape the course of revolution and reform. A military genius, he played a crucial role both in crushing the monarchy in England and Wales and in establishing English republican control over Ireland and Scotland. He rose to be head of the army and eventually head of state of a united Britain as Lord Protector. This illustrated biography provides a concise and accessible introduction to Cromwell's life and career. The text draws upon extensive and up-to-date research as well as contemporary speeches and letters, both personal and political, giving an insight into the hopes and fears, goals and aspirations of the man behind one of the most critical periods of British history.