Engagement controversy (original) (raw)

The Engagement Controversy was a debate in England from 1649–1652 regarding loyalty to the new regime after Pride's Purge and the execution of Charles I. During this period hundreds of pamphlets were published in England supporting 'engagement' to the new regime or denying the right of English citizens to shift their allegiance from the deposed king to Oliver Cromwell and his associates. In 1650 the statement of engagement took the form:"I do declare and promise, that I will be true and faithful to the Commonwealth of England, as it is now established, without a King or House of Lords."