Political Views: Cromwell was a strong advocate of parliamentary sovereignty and believed that the monarchy should be subordinate to Parliament. He saw the conflict with Charles I as a struggle between the Crown's authoritarian tendencies and the people's right to self-government. Cromwell supported the Roundheads because they upheld these constitutional principles and sought to establish a more representative and accountable form of government.
Personal Ambition: While religious and political beliefs were primary motivations, personal ambition also played a role in Cromwell's support for the Roundheads. Cromwell was a skilled military leader and recognized that the conflict provided an opportunity for personal advancement and influence. By siding with the Roundheads and demonstrating his military capabilities, Cromwell gained prominence and eventually rose to become the leader of the Parliamentarian forces.
Parliamentary Representation: Cromwell was elected to Parliament in 1628 and quickly emerged as a vocal critic of Charles I's policies. He championed the rights of the Commons against the Crown's encroachment, which further aligned him with the Roundheads and their cause.
These factors combined led Oliver Cromwell to support the Roundheads in the English Civil War. His religious beliefs, political views, personal ambitions, and parliamentary involvement all contributed to his decision to join the forces fighting for religious freedom, constitutional rights, and parliamentary supremacy.