Rule of Oliver Cromwell (feb 25, 1653 – dec 15, 1658)
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After defeating Charles I, Oliver Cromwell, the leader of the Parliament forces rose to power. His rule was based on strict Puritan principles and rested upon a hypothetical parliament. In reality, it was a military dictatorship ruled by the army, with Cromwell at the head. He favored some degree of religious tolerance, extending to all except Roman Catholics—effectively alienating Ireland. He also favored mercantilist policies such as the Navigation Act, and welcomed immigration of Jews due to their status as skilled workers. However, after Cromwell’s death, his son was an ineffective ruler and the proctorate collapsed.
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