The new model army brought the kingdoms of England, Scotland, and Ireland closer together then ever before. Ireland and Scotland were both occupied and during the civil war, there was active participation on both sides. This new modern method of recruitment, training, and fighting  made England a professional army, and that professional army united the kingdoms to create what would become one of the first true Nations in regard to their national boundaries, Great Britain. I do not praise Cromwell for his swift and bloody subjugation, but without him and this army it is hard to see Great Britain forming as soon as it did.