AS Lord Protector, Cromwell refused the crown (the army would never have approved) but lived in regal splendour. Like Charles before him, he discriminated against those who did not share his religious beliefs, and dismissed Parliament – to which he had added a second chamber of his own nominees — whenever it displeased him. England, indeed all Britain, was a military and religious dictatorship invested in one man.

Consequently, when Oliver died in 1658 the country was left effectively without a constitution, and in utter chaos. His son Richard succeeded him as Lord Protector, but the army repeatedly broke up his parliaments until George Monck, one of Westminster’s most capable and decorated commanders, brought Scottish troops to London, aiming to reinstate Parliament and undo the wrongs of Pride’s coup.

Again Parliament offered their hero the crown; again it was spurned. Instead, Monck negotiated for the restoration of the exiled Charles II, who was proclaimed King on May 8th, 1660, and came home to cheering London crowds three weeks later.