Portrait of King Charles II, in Coronation robes, c. 1671-1676
1660 - 1685

Charles II

Charles II was the King of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1660 until his death in 1685. Known as the "Merry Monarch", his reign marked the restoration of the Stuart monarchy after the English Civil War and the subsequent republican Interregnum led by Oliver Cromwell. Charles II's reign witnessed significant events such as the Great Plague of 1665, the Great Fire of London in 1666, and the rise of party politics. Notably, he also supported the arts and sciences, resulting in the establishment of the Royal Society. Despite his challenges, Charles II managed to navigate political intrigues and restored stability to the monarchy.