A History of Britain (2000)

S2E2 Revolutions (1649 - 1689)

Following the Civil War, Britain found itself under the control of a republic without a monarch, governed by Oliver Cromwell. His authoritarian rule saw him dismiss Parliament when it opposed him, effectively acting as a king while enforcing strict Puritan values through his Major Generals across the nation. After his death, the resulting chaos paved the way for Charles II's Restoration, during which he faced the challenges of the Great Fire and a crisis fueled by anti-Catholic sentiment. James II's strong Catholic beliefs ignited fears of another uprising, ultimately leading to his removal by the forces of Dutch King William.