Instrument of Government

Timeline

1. 1653London · EnglandWith the support of the Council of Officers, General John Lambert drafted the Instrument of Government, a document of 42 articles specifying the Lord Protector's powers, the composition of Parliament, electoral qualifications, and the functions of the Council of State, establishing a unified constitutional framework for England, Scotland, and Ireland.
2. 1653Westminster, London · LondonOn 16 December, the Instrument of Government was formally promulgated; Cromwell took office as Lord Protector and was sworn in the same day, formally establishing the English Protectorate. This was the only codified constitution in British history promulgated through formal procedures, and was later partially superseded by the Humble Petition and Advice in 1657.