Source Analysis: Oliver Cromwell - Hero or Villain?

This active learning lesson has been created to help students access the role played by Oliver Cromwell by analysing a series of primary and secondary sources describing his actions during the English Civil War. The key interpretation is provided by the historian JP Kenyon, which is then investigated by sorting the sources under the two headings of ‘hero’ or villain.’ However, if your photocopying budget can extended to printing off a class set of A3 sheets, I have also provided two beautifully designed graphic organisers that the cards can be stuck to in order to create a revision aid or classroom display. Once this has been complete, students can then have a go at answering the question: How far was Oliver Cromwell a hero or a villain?

I would recommend that this resource should be used with either a core or advanced group as there is a lot of reading, which would be too much for a foundation group with low literacy skills. If you are looking for something a little easier, I have made a another simpler card sort which just looks at the facts. This can be bought separately or as a bundle.

When you purchase this resources you will be able to download a fully editable two page Microsoft Word document and a 10 slide PowerPoint Presentation. The PP includes aims, objectives, outcomes, two starters, information slides, templates, video links an

The aims and objectives are:

Theme: The Protectorate and Interregnum

• Know: What sort of leader was Oliver Cromwell?
• Understand: How has Cromwell’s rule as Lord Protector been interpreted?
• Evaluate: How far does the evidence support the interpretation of Oliver Cromwell as a ‘hero’ or ‘villain’?
• Skills: Interpretation, Source Analysis & Collaboration

WILF – What Am I Looking For?

• Identify & describe: What sort of leader was Oliver Cromwell?
• Explain: How has Cromwell’s rule as Lord Protector been interpreted?
• Analyse: How far does the evidence support the interpretation of Oliver Cromwell as a ‘hero’ or ‘villain’?

If you like this resource then why not check out my other resources on this topic in my TES shop, where many have been bundled together to provide you with further savings. You can also follow ‘The History Academy’ on Twitter, YouTube and Facebook for the latest updates or even to get in touch and chat about how you have used this resource or to ask questions. We aim to produce cheap and affordable resources for either the price of a good cup of coffee or a happy meal so that you can spend more time doing the things that you want.
Anyway, have fun and stay in touch via social media for the latest updates.

Kind Regards

Roy