Oliver Cromwell was deeply involved in the political and religious conflicts of his time. Some of the key issues and events of his life include:

The English Civil War: Cromwell rose to prominence as a military leader during the English Civil War, which began in 1642 as a struggle between the Royalist supporters of King Charles I and the parliamentary forces. Cromwell commanded the "Ironsides," a powerful cavalry unit, and played a key role in several key parliamentary victories, including the Battle of Marston Moor in 1644 and the Battle of Naseby in 1645.

The execution of King Charles I: After the parliamentary forces defeated the Royalists, they put King Charles I on trial for treason. Cromwell was a member of the High Court of Justice that convicted the king, and he supported the decision to execute him in 1649. This event was a turning point in British history, as it marked the first time a ruling monarch had been executed by his own subjects.

The Commonwealth: After the execution of Charles I, Cromwell helped establish a Commonwealth government in England, with himself as Lord Protector. He sought to create a more egalitarian society and to suppress the power of the traditional ruling class. He also sought to promote religious toleration and to protect the rights of religious minorities, such as Quakers and Jews.

The Protectorate: Cromwell's rule as Lord Protector was marked by both successes and failures. He had some successes in military campaigns, including the conquest of Ireland and Scotland and the naval victory against the Dutch at the Battle of the Gabbard. On the other hand, his government was criticized for its authoritarian nature and for its persecution of religious dissenters. After his death, his son Richard failed to maintain the power and the country went back to monarchy under Charles II.

Cromwell's death and legacy: Cromwell died of natural causes in 1658. His death marked the end of the Commonwealth and the beginning of the Restoration, in which Charles II was restored to the throne. Cromwell's legacy is still a matter of debate, with some considering him as a hero who defended the rights of the common people, while others view him as a dictator who destroyed the traditional order of the monarchy.