'Combined with the astonishing richness of Barclay's research is the outstanding source criticism ... a must read.' History Today 'This monograph constitutes a splendid example of how a startlingly original interpretation can emerge about an intensively studied figure through close readings of apparently intractable sources, carefully framed arguments, and proper use of historical imagination. Highly recommended.' CHOICE 'a book that challenges preconceptions about Cromwell while offering much insight into the period of his life surrounding his election to parliament in 1640. Journal of British Studies

• Chapter 1 The Man from Huntingdon; Chapter 2 The Biographer; Chapter 3 The Fishmonger; Chapter 4 The Kinsmen; Chapter 5 The Nonconformists in the Fens?; Chapter 6 The Drainers, the Protesters and the Bishop; Chapter 7 The Ely Petitioners; Chapter 8 The two Elections of 1640; Chapter 9 Another Election; Chapter 10 The War Years; Chapter 11 Back to the Restoration; Chapter 12 Conclusion;