ABSTRACT
This chapter traces Skippon’s involvement in the Cromwellian Protectorate to analyse the debates surrounding the role of the military in civilian government. Skippon’s activities during these years offer an interesting perspective on these debates. He was a man whose political importance rested entirely on a military role, yet he consistently sought to limit the role of the sword in government. During the Protectorate, Skippon served on the council of state and as an MP, and even sat in Oliver Cromwell’s “Other House” as “Lord Skippon” whilst continuing as commander of the London Trained Bands. Nevertheless, when appointed Major-General for the City of London during the so-called “rule of the Major-Generals”, Skippon was unenthusiastic in his duties, whilst his outburst on the Quaker James Nayler precipitated the fall of the Major-Generals’ regime. He continually aligned himself with the “civilian Cromwellians”, such as supporting the offer of the Crown to Cromwell. Skippon maintained close relations with the house of Cromwell and supported the succession of Richard Cromwell in 1658. Yet, following Richard’s abdication, Skippon’s ability to maintain order in London meant that he was not removed from command of the Trained Bands until shortly before his timely death at the Restoration in 1660.
