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| Born 1599. |
Became Lord Protector Dec. 16, 1653. | |
| Died Sep. 3, 1658. |
Ruled 4¾ Years. |
After the death of Charles I., his son Charles being invited by the Scots to become their king, Oliver Cromwell went with an army into Scotland, where he entirely defeated the Scots army, Charles with another army having entered England, was again overcome by Cromwell at Worcester; Charles with difficulty escaping into France. Cromwell, having abolished the Long Parliament, was at length elevated to the supreme power by the title of Lord Protector. He was distinguished for the ability with which he conducted affairs both at home and abroad. He retained the supreme power until his death, and was succeeded by his son Richard, who in a short time resigned; the nation by this time being prepared for the return of Charles II.
Eminent men during the Commonwealth:—Admiral Blake; Generals Fairfax and Monk; Sir H. Vane; John Milton.
