Cromwell invades Scotland

Oliver Cromwell’s invasion of Scotland in 1650 was a pivotal chapter in the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, a series of conflicts involving England, Scotland, and Ireland. The invasion was prompted by the Scots’ allegiance to Charles II, opposing Cromwell's Parliamentary forces which sought to quell Royalist resurgence after the execution of Charles I. Despite initial setbacks due to the challenging Scottish terrain and guerrilla tactics, Cromwell achieved a decisive victory at the Battle of Dunbar on September 3, 1650, leading to the occupation of large parts of Scotland. The invasion significantly diminished Royalist power in Scotland and allowed for Cromwell’s establishment of English dominance, effectively making Scotland a part of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland until the Restoration of Charles II in 1660.