Cromwell was Framed

Main Themes and Topics

Tom Reilly's Cromwell was Framed delves into the controversial historical accounts surrounding Oliver Cromwell's alleged war crimes in Ireland. The book seeks to dismantle longstanding myths about Cromwell's actions at Drogheda and Wexford, presenting a defense of Cromwell against charges of brutality and malfeasance. Reilly posits that the narratives of indiscriminate slaughter were fabricated and challenges traditional historical interpretations by presenting primary source documents for readers to analyze themselves. This work engages with themes of historical accuracy, the reliability of historical narratives, and the reassessment of a contentious historical figure.

Writing Style and Tone

Reilly's writing in Cromwell was Framed is both assertive and provocative. The tone is that of a challenger determined to confront the established historical consensus. He adopts a direct style that is accessible to both general readers and scholars alike, offering detailed analyses and encouraging readers to form their own opinions based on the evidence provided. The work is presented in a manner that makes complex historical debates approachable, with Reilly's passionate engagement with the subject matter evident throughout.

Criticism

Despite its persuasive arguments, Cromwell was Framed has faced criticism from some academic quarters. Critics argue that Reilly, as an amateur historian, lacks the rigorous methodological approach typically expected in historical scholarship. Some historians have also taken issue with his reinterpretation of primary sources, suggesting that his conclusions are overly speculative or biased. Nonetheless, Reilly's provocative stance and willingness to challenge academic orthodoxy have sparked substantial debate in historical circles.

Brief Summary

Cromwell was Framed revisits the historical narratives surrounding Oliver Cromwell's military campaigns in Ireland, particularly the events at Drogheda and Wexford. Reilly contests the widespread accusations of Cromwell's cruel and ruthless behavior by providing an alternative interpretation of contemporary documents. The book argues that incriminating accounts of Cromwell's actions were the result of deliberate misinformation carried out by specific individuals. Reilly invites readers to reconsider Cromwell's legacy by engaging directly with historical evidence.