UK Citizenship Practice Test

The title of Lord Protector was granted to Oliver Cromwell during the Commonwealth period in England, which lasted from 1649 to 1660. This period followed the English Civil War, and during this time, Cromwell led the government as a military and political leader after the execution of King Charles I.

Oliver Cromwell's role as Lord Protector was significant because he held executive power and ruled the nation under a republican form of government, which was a departure from the monarchy. His leadership was marked by various military campaigns and efforts to reform the government and society according to his Puritan beliefs.

The other individuals mentioned in the choices did not hold the title of Lord Protector during the Commonwealth. Charles I was the king whose execution led to the establishment of the Commonwealth, and James II was a later monarch who reigned after the Commonwealth period. The mention of Oliver Twist, a fictional character created by Charles Dickens, is not relevant in this historical context. Thus, the correct answer is Oliver Cromwell, as he was the only one of the listed figures who was actually granted the title of Lord Protector during the Commonwealth period.