Charles II

Date of Birth: May 29, 1630

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: February 6, 1685

Biography

Charles II was born on May 29, 1630, in St. James’s Palace, London. He was the son of King Charles I of England and Queen Henrietta Maria. Charles II became king of England, Scotland, and Ireland in 1660, after the period of the English Commonwealth and the rule of Oliver Cromwell. His reign, known as the Restoration period, was marked by political and social changes, including the establishment of a more tolerant religious policy and the flourishing of arts and culture, often referred to as the Restoration period in English literature. Charles II was known for his charm and wit, earning the nickname “The Merry Monarch.” His reign saw the re-establishment of the Church of England and the development of a constitutional monarchy. Despite facing challenges such as the Great Plague and the Great Fire of London, Charles II’s reign was also a time of scientific advancement, with the formation of the Royal Society.

5 Interesting Facts about Charles II

1. Charles II was exiled for nearly a decade during the English Civil War and the Commonwealth period.

2. He is credited with founding the Royal Observatory in Greenwich.

3. Charles II had a keen interest in science and patronized the Royal Society, which included members like Isaac Newton.

4. He was known for his numerous mistresses and fathered at least 14 illegitimate children.

5. The Habeas Corpus Act of 1679, which protects against unlawful and indefinite imprisonment, was passed during his reign.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Charles II

1. “I always admired virtue – but I could never imitate it.”

2. “Let not poor Nelly starve,” referring to his mistress Nell Gwyn.

3. “I am too old to go on a long journey, nor do I think my constitution capable of it.”

4. “I am resolved to go on and to do my duty to the best of my ability.”

5. “I am sorry, gentlemen, for being such a time a-dying.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While specific figures for Charles II’s net worth are difficult to ascertain due to the period in which he lived, his status as a monarch provided him with considerable wealth and resources. Adjusted for modern value, it is estimated that his wealth would be in the hundreds of millions.

Children

Charles II had no legitimate children with his wife, Catherine of Braganza. However, he acknowledged several illegitimate children, including: 1. James Scott, Duke of Monmouth 2. Charles FitzCharles, 1st Earl of Plymouth 3. Charles FitzRoy, 2nd Duke of Cleveland 4. Henry FitzRoy, 1st Duke of Grafton 5. George FitzRoy, 1st Duke of Northumberland