The Failed Alliance: Oliver Cromwell and the Great Conde

Abstract

The bloody Thirty Years' War turned into a «European civil war», which part were the «parallel» civil upheavals in England and the Fronde in France. This period’s diplomacy was distinguished by particular complexity, inconsistency and a bizarre interweaving of state, social and personal interests.The relationship between the head of the English Republic, Oliver Cromwell, and the French prince, Louis de Condé, organically fits into it.The article examines the course and results of the indirect dialogue between the two political leaders.Negotiations between them took place along several lines: the conclusion of a marriage between the heir to Condé and the daughter of Cromwell, about the possibility for the rebellious prince to become the French king, about obtaining mutual support, and even about the new religious and political state of Europe.The nature of the negotiations was determined by the timing and balance of power in Britain, France and on the Continent.With regard to the Fronde of Princes and the Spanish Fronde, the English leader adopted a waiting tactic, skillfully intervening in relations between the French government and the opposition.The interests of the state required an alliance with a stable France to fight against Spain.At that time,Condé, waiting for help from England, was guided, first of all, by personal interests and did not want to compromise.As a prince of the blood, he, while admiring Cromwell, still put him below himself.