Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland facts for kids
The Lord Protector was a special title given to the leaders of England, Scotland, and Ireland during a time called the Great Interregnum. This was a period from 1649 to 1659, after King Charles I was executed.
There were two Lord Protectors: Oliver Cromwell and his son, Richard Cromwell. Richard ruled for less than a year, from 1658 to 1659.
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Who Were the Lord Protectors?
The Lord Protector was like a head of state, but not a king. This role was created after England became a republic, meaning it no longer had a monarch.
Oliver Cromwell: The First Lord Protector
Oliver Cromwell was born on April 25, 1599, in Huntingdon, England. He was a very important military and political leader. People sometimes called him "Old Ironsides."
Oliver Cromwell became the first Lord Protector on December 16, 1653. He led the country until his death on September 3, 1658, in London, England. After he died, his son Richard took over.
Richard Cromwell: The Second Lord Protector
Richard Cromwell was born on October 4, 1626, also in Huntingdon, England. He was Oliver Cromwell's son. Some people nicknamed him "Tumbledown Dick."
Richard became Lord Protector on September 3, 1658, right after his father passed away. However, he did not rule for very long. He resigned on May 25, 1659.
The End of the Commonwealth
After Richard Cromwell resigned, a group called the Council of State governed the country for a short time. They ruled until May 28, 1660.
On that date, King Charles II, who was the son of the executed King Charles I, returned to England. He took back power and was restored as the monarch of England, Scotland, and Ireland. This event is known as the Restoration.
