Charles II and the challenge of restoring a kingdom

Antonia Fraser's Charles II biography frames the Restoration as a search for someone who could fill the governing vacuum left by Oliver Cromwell as well as restore the monarchy. Richard Cromwell could not sustain his father's position because the Protectorate had depended on Oliver's personal authority and command of a formidable army. That force deterred domestic challenges and warned neighboring powers against opportunism. Charles II proved more capable of reconciliation and of bringing a divided political nation back together. His foreign policy and military leadership were weaker. During the third war with the Dutch, his nephew's careful manipulation of the press helped unite much of the country in opposition to the king.