The Rise of the New Model Army

Book excerpt: This is a meticulously-researched and highly controversial study of the origins and development of parliamentary and extra-parliamentary politics during the English Civil War. Professor Kishlansky challenges the fundamental assumptions upon which all previous interpretations of this period have been based. It is his contention that during the years 1643-6, Parliament operated on a model of consensus rather than on one of party conflict as has been traditionally assumed. The New Model Army was thus the product of compromise and, Professor Kishlansky argues, it embodied the ideology that created it. The political invention of the Army occurred only after the machine of consensus politics had broken down with Parliament. The New Model Army, perpetuating the belief in consensus and balance but also representing its own interests, then became one of many factions competing for dominance.