44. Charles II (Restoration)

Published: Jan. 28, 2012, 2:13 p.m.

After the republican interlude of the Commonwealth, Charles II leads the restoration of the monarchy in 1660. After an adventurous youth alongside his father in the Civil War and a thrilling escape from Cromwell's clutches in 1651, Charles was intent on having a good time and taking things easy. However, increasing tensions around foreign policy and religion (specifically the Catholicism of Charles's brother, James) saw the country once more in fear of civil strife. Will Charles II succeed where his father failed? Will he be able to put out the Great Fire of London? And most importantly, will he win the Rex Factor?