The Protectorate was a period in English history that began in 1653, after the dissolution of the Rump Parliament, and ended in 1659 with the restoration of the Long Parliament. The period was marked by the rule of Oliver Cromwell, who held the title of Lord Protector, and his supporters, who were known as the Cromwellians.

During the Protectorate, Cromwell and his supporters sought to establish a more stable and effective form of government than had existed during the turbulent years of the English Civil War. They established a written constitution, known as the Instrument of Government, which provided for the establishment of a republican government with Cromwell as Lord Protector.

The Protectorate was marked by a number of significant political and social changes. Cromwell and his supporters sought to establish a more efficient and centralized government, and they undertook a number of reforms aimed at improving the country's legal, economic, and religious institutions. They also sought to expand England's influence abroad, and were involved in a number of military campaigns, including wars against the Dutch and the Spanish.

Despite these efforts, the Protectorate was marked by political turmoil and instability. There was widespread opposition to Cromwell's rule, particularly among those who favored a return to a monarchical form of government. In addition, there were economic and social challenges, including rising prices and widespread poverty.

Oliver Cromwell was able to maintain his power during the Protectorate in England through a combination of military strength, political maneuvering, and a commitment to religious reform.

Cromwell was a skilled military leader who had played a key role in the victory of Parliament over the Royalists during the English Civil War. He had the loyalty of the army, which was a powerful force in the country at the time, and he was able to use this military strength to consolidate his power and maintain control over the government.

In addition to his military strength, Cromwell was a skilled politician who was able to navigate the complex political landscape of the time. He was able to build alliances with key figures in Parliament and the military, and he was adept at using his powers of persuasion to gain support for his policies and programs.

Cromwell was also a committed Puritan, who believed in the importance of religious reform. He worked to promote the cause of religious toleration, and he sought to establish a society based on Puritan values and ideals. This commitment to religious reform helped to win him the support of many Puritans and other religious groups.

Overall, Cromwell's ability to maintain his power during the Protectorate was due to a combination of his military strength, political skills, and commitment to religious reform. While his rule was marked by political turmoil and opposition, he was able to maintain control over the government and make significant reforms to the country's political, economic, and religious institutions.

The Protectorate came to an end in 1659, when the Long Parliament was restored and a new government was established. Cromwell died the following year, and was succeeded by his son Richard, who was unable to maintain the support of the military and the government. This led to the restoration of the monarchy in 1660, with the coronation of King Charles II, and the end of the Protectorate.