Oliver Cromwell and Charles II successively ruled Britain in the 17th century. They both led radically different forms of government – ​​a Republic and a Monarchy, respectively – and both had different areas of expertise and experience when they took power. Oliver Cromwell and Charles II had similar domestic policies during their reign, particularly regarding religious tolerance and citizens' rights. The two leaders differed in their foreign policies, particularly regarding their motivations for exploration and conquest. Charles II and Oliver Cromwell took similar positions regarding domestic politics. One of the commonalities between the two was their policies towards religious tolerance. Both men ruled through tumultuous times – England was divided almost equally between the Anglican Church and the Puritans. Despite the delicate situation the two men found themselves in, they extended religious tolerance to many others. Cromwell, in particular, readmitted Jews to England because of their potential contribution to the merchant class. Charles II focused largely on religious freedom for Catholics. However, unlike Cromwell, Charles' kindness towards Catholics led to significant public distrust of the monarch and fear that he would attempt to bring back Catholicism. Anti-Catholic hysteria reached its peak during the Popish Plot, which led the public to demand that Charles expel his son and heir to the throne, James II, because he was a devout Catholic. Charles' refusal to expel his son had lasting consequences on his reign, as the public and Parliament could never trust him again. Additionally, both men attempted to impose their own religious beliefs on the public. Charles restored the...... middle of paper ......lopedia. 16 ed. 1987. Print. “Luminarium Encyclopedia: King Charles II of England (1630-1685). » Luminarium: Anthology of English literature. Np, and Web. November 15, 2011. "Oliver Cromwell (English statesman) - Britannica Online Encyclopedia." Encyclopedia - Britannica Online Encyclopedia. Np, and Web. November 14, 2011. .Oliver Cromwell. London, United Kingdom: Longsman, Green and Co., 1901. “Oliver Cromwell” print. American Academic Encyclopedia. 16 ed. 1987. Print. “Oliver Cromwell.” The new encyclopedia. 15 ed. 2002. Print. “Charles II (King of Great Britain and Ireland) - Britannica Online Encyclopedia. » Encyclopedia - Britannica Online Encyclopedia. Np, and Web. November 14. 2011. .