- 1658: Richard Cromwell is proclaimed Lord Protector following the death of his father, Oliver Cromwell. Parliament votes to recognize him as the new head of state.
- 1658-1659: Richard Cromwell faces challenges from various groups, including the army, Parliament, and republican factions. There is widespread discontent with the Protectorate and calls for the restoration of the monarchy.
- 1659: Richard Cromwell dissolves Parliament after it refuses to pass a bill providing security for his government. This leads to further tension between the Protectorate and Parliament.
- 1659: Richard Cromwell resigns as Lord Protector due to the growing instability and opposition to his rule. The Protectorate is abolished and the Rump Parliament is restored. This marks the end of the Commonwealth and the beginning of the transition back to monarchy.
- 1660: The monarchy is restored under King Charles II, signaling the end of the Protectorate era and the beginning of the Stuart Restoration.