Self-denying Ordinance

Self-denying Ordinance, a measure carried through parliament in 1645 by the influence of Cromwell and the Independents, by means of which generals who were either less efficient or but half-hearted in the cause were removed from the command of the army. After Manchester's lack of energy at the second battle of Newbury (October 27, 1645) Cromwell had determined upon a change of tactics, and attacked Manchester in parliament, but he soon found the more sweeping measure a better means towards his ends. The Lords threw out the measure, whereupon the Commons proceeded to form a New Model Army under Sir Thomas Fairfax as general-in-chief. The Lords now passed the measure with some alterations and called on all existing officers to resign. Thus Essex, Waller, and Manchester were got rid of, while Cromwell was specially reappointed to the command of the cavalry as lieutenant-general.—For a similar measure, but one suicidal to good government, in the history of the French Revolution, see MIRABEAU, and ROBESPIERRE.