When God was King
Rebels & Radicals of the Civil War & Mayflower Generation
by Martyn Whittock
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Pub Date 20 Apr 2018 | Archive Date 19 Jul 2018
Lion Hudson Ltd | Lion Books
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Description
Islam is not the only religion that has sought to take political power, or believed that it should be possible to create a theocracy.
In the 17th century, Christians in the British Isles and North America attempted to follow the examples of 16th century European radicals of contrasting types, while attempting to learn from their mistakes - first in Scotland, and then Cromwell tried to impose just such a rule in the rest of the country.
At the same time, millenarian groups planned a religious, political and social revolution to usher in the return of Christ; while others argued for something akin to communism. And even after the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660, there were sects, such as the Quakers, whose faith had a radical impact on their politics. Nor is Christian political radicalism dead today - it has influenced politicians ever since, and can be seen in recent political developments in the USA in the twenty-first century.
This book is a fascinating study of the ideas and actions of these political radicals and the kind of societies and life experiences that produced them.
A Note From the Publisher
Advance Praise
“The Christian Church – particularly the Protestant bit of it – is particularly adept at bifurcation. This was never more evident than in the seventeenth century. Whittock leads us through the luxuriant undergrowth of politico-religious fragmentation and rival sincerities. His book well deserves to be set alongside Christopher Hill’s classic The World Turned Upside Down.” Derek Wilson, historian and author
Available Editions
| EDITION | Other Format |
| ISBN | 9780745980423 |
| PRICE | US$14.99 (USD) |
Featured Reviews
Ionia F, Reviewer
Plain and simply--this is one of the most fascinating books I have read this year. I tend to read a lot of non-fiction and have a particular love of the sixteenth and seventeenth century, so when I saw this book I knew I had to read it. I am so glad that I had the opportunity.
I found this entire book interesting, but one of the sections that stood out the most to me, was the discussion of Oliver Cromwell prior to his stint as Lord Protector of England. Some of the things that were done 'in the name of God,' were certainly underhanded and I think history had glossed a lot of these things over. This book highlights how a personal belief in something can justify actions that would otherwise be seen quite differently--very thought provoking.
I liked that the author included histories of the different groups of people that combined their efforts to see change brought about and how they worked for the causes they believed in. Overall, this was a really informative and well-researched book with a lot to offer the reader. If you are interested in history, religion and politics, this is a book that you will not want to miss.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Rose B, Reviewer
While I am a history buff, reading When God was King, was slow going. Although it is interesting and full of history from the 16th and 17th century I just suffered from distractions and dissatisfaction. Perhaps it was just not my cup of tea. I do not wish to dissuade other non-fiction lovers from reading it because I did find it interesting, it just did not draw me in so I moved on to other reads.
Full Disclosure: I was allowed to read a copy of this book for free as a member of NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not influenced to give a positive review.
Rebecca H, Reviewer
A fascinating and captivating look at the role religion played in 16th and 17th century. We get a look at the Puritans, as well as how religion "motivated" men during this time.
When God Was King draws on little-known facts, things that have been looked over in history, and brings them to a more prominent position. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and even learning a bit more about Oliver Cromwell. I have always found him to be an interesting person, so to have him written about here was perfect.
A great read for those who love history!
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