We study the glory of God, and the honour and liberty of parliament, for which we unanimously fight, without seeking our own interests... I profess I could never satisfy myself on the justness of this war, but from the authority of the parliament to maintain itself in its rights; and in this cause I hope to prove myself an honest man and single-hearted.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Cromwell states that the war was fought for parliamentary rights and religious glory rather than personal gain.
- In plain terms
- They fought for parliament and God, not for themselves.
- What can you take from it?
- Motivation in conflict matters more than the outcome.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What justifies a war?
- Is personal interest always selfish?
Another view
Self-reported motives may differ from actual political realities.
More from Oliver Cromwell
Truly England and the church of God hath had a great favour from the Lord, in this great victory given us.
Permalink to quote #6 I could not riding out alone about my business, but smile out to God in praises, in assurance of victory because God would, by things that are not, bring to na…
Permalink to quote #8 God made them as stubble to our swords.
Permalink to quote #5
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