Richard was the third son of Oliver Cromwell who was the first Lord Protector. Born on 4th October 1626, Richard succeeded his father as Lord Protector on the 3rd September 1658. There was much controversy surrounding his succession and he was not a popular choice as he lacked authority and had no real military experience. Consequently, his reign was short, lasting only until 25th May 1659 a total of 264 days. He was succeeded by A Council of State.

In July 1660 he left Britain for France never to see his wife Dorothy Cromwell nee Maijor again. He returned to England in 1680 or 81 and lived in Hertfordshire. He died on the 12th July 1712 aged 85. After his death, his body was interred in a vault beneath All Saints' Church in Hursley.

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