Charles II (King of England)

Charles II was King of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1660 to 1685, known as the Restoration period, which followed the English Civil War and the Interregnum. He was the son of Charles I, who was executed in 1649. Charles II restored the monarchy after years of republican rule under Oliver Cromwell. His reign is marked by a flourishing of arts and sciences, religious tolerance, and political intrigue. Charles II was often called the "Merry Monarch" for his lively court and personal charm. He faced challenges, including conflicts with Parliament and the Great Plague of 1665 and the Great Fire of London in 1666.