What was interesting about Charles II?
His reign became known as the Restoration period in England. What was being restored? The monarchy in general and he himself as king specifically. What HAPPENED? Because of the English Civil Wars (also called the Great Rebellion), which were fought 1642 until 1651, the monarchy was temporarily abolished. In context, the rulers of England were: James I – ruled 1603 – 1625 Charles I – ruled 1625 – 1649 Oliver Cromwell and the Commonwealth – 1649 – 1660 Charles II – ruled 1660 – 1685 James II – ruled 1685 – 1688 What’s with the Civil Wars? The Civil Wars were fought between the Royalists and the Parliamentarians. The Royalists allied with the Irish and the Parliamentarians allied with the Scottish. The Parliamentarians, led by Oliver Cromwell, won. They executed Charles I, Charles II fled to France in 1651, and the Commonwealth was established. Oliver Cromwell died in 1658 and the country was in danger of falling into political chaos. Thus, it was arranged for Charles II to be restored. R
