Evaluate the impact of the Barebone's Parliament in the English Civil War.

The Barebone's Parliament had a significant impact on the English Civil War by further destabilising the political landscape.

The Barebone's Parliament, officially known as the Parliament of Saints, was a radical political experiment that took place in 1653 during the Interregnum, the period between the execution of Charles I and the restoration of Charles II. Its impact on the English Civil War was profound, as it further destabilised the political landscape and contributed to the eventual establishment of Oliver Cromwell's Protectorate.

The Barebone's Parliament was named after one of its members, Praise-God Barebone, a leather seller from London. It was composed of 140 men, none of whom were elected, but were instead selected by Cromwell and the Army Council for their religious zeal. This was a radical departure from the traditional parliamentary system, and it was hoped that these 'godly' men would be able to reform the nation along puritan lines.

However, the Barebone's Parliament was deeply unpopular and was seen as illegitimate by many. Its members were viewed as religious extremists, and their attempts to reform the law and the church were met with widespread resistance. This led to a great deal of political instability, with frequent protests and riots. The Parliament was also deeply divided internally, with factions arguing over the direction of reform.

The failure of the Barebone's Parliament to achieve its goals and maintain order led to its dissolution after just five months. This left a power vacuum, which was filled by Oliver Cromwell, who established the Protectorate in December 1653. The failure of the Barebone's Parliament thus directly contributed to the rise of Cromwell and the establishment of his military dictatorship.

In conclusion, the Barebone's Parliament had a significant impact on the English Civil War. Its radical approach to governance and its failure to maintain order further destabilised the political landscape, leading to the rise of Cromwell and the establishment of the Protectorate. Despite its short lifespan, the Barebone's Parliament was a key event in the English Civil War and its aftermath.