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On July 26, 1469, during the Wars of the Roses at the Battle of Edgecote Moor, the rebel forces of Richard Neville, 16th Earl of Warwick defeated the forces of King Edward IV. From the article:
"Battle of Edgecote, 26 July 1469
The battle of Edgecote (26 July 1469) was the first fighting in the second phase of the Wars of the Roses and saw a rebel army supported by the earl of Warwick defeat a Royal army led by the earls of Pembroke and Devon, leaving Edward IV vulnerable to capture.
Background
After the Yorkist victory in the first phase of the wars Richard Neville, earl of Warwick, had become the most powerful man in the kingdom behind Edward IV, but it soon became clear that he wasn't happy with this status. The 'kingmaker' seems to have believed that he should have been the power behind the throne, but Edward turned out to be much more independent. Although Warwick was well rewarded for his efforts on Edward's behalf he wasn't made a duke, and he also saw some Royal patronage go to the Woodvilles, Edward's wife's family. The two men also disagreed over foreign policy. Warwick was in favour of a French alliance against Burgundy, while Edward wanted an alliance with Burgundy.
The breach had first begun to open after Edward's secret marriage on 1 May 1464. Warwick spent much of the year attempting to negotiate a marriage between Edward and a French princess, so when the secret came out in the autumn Warwick was inevitably angered.
The first open breach developed in 1467 and was triggered by the disagreement over foreign policy. In 1466 Warwick had been sent to France and Burgundy on diplomatic missions, but had fallen out with Charles of Charolais, the heir to Burgundy. By the autumn Lord Rivers had been given responsibility for the negotiations with Burgundy, and in October Edward and Charles agreed a secret treaty of friendship. In May 1467 Warwick was sent to France again, while another embassy went to Burgundy. While Warwick was away his brother, the Archbishop of York, was removed as Chancellor, and after Warwick returned in June the French delegation he brought with him was snubbed by the king. In September the alliance with Burgundy, where Charles had now become duke, was made public and it was announced that Charles was to marry Edward's sister Margaret. Edward also agreed an alliance with the Duke of Brittany, and it was clear that Warwick's pro-French policy had failed.
Warwick responded by retreating to his northern estates in something of a sulk, where he began to plot against Edward. He found an ally in Edward's brother George, Duke of Clarence, an able and intelligent but unreliable man. While Edward no sons Clarence was heir presumptive. Warwick had no sons, but two daughters, and he now agreed to marry his daughter Isabel to Clarence. We don't know if Warwick was planning to depose Edward after seizing power, as his attempts to rule with a captive king failed too quickly, but this marriage did offer the prospect of a potential future grandson of Warwick on the throne. Earlier Warwick attempted to get Edward's approval for this marriage, but without success, so if the marriage went ahead it would be in defiance of the king.
In 1468 Warwick and Edward were officially reconciled, and Warwick returned to court, but underneath this public façade he was still plotting. Edward played into his hands with an unimpressive military venture. On 17 May Edward's chancellor announced that the King intended to go to war with France, in alliance with Burgundy and Brittany. Parliament granted Edward a large subsidy. Louis XI responded by supporting a small and rather unsuccessful invasion of Wales led by Jasper Tudor - so unsuccessful in fact that the long siege of Harlech came to an end on 14 August, removing the last Lancastrian foothold on English or Welsh soil. Elsewhere the war went badly. The French invaded Brittany, and in September Duke Francis made peace. On 14 October Duke Charles of Burgundy and Louis XI signed the treaty of Péronne, leaving England without allies. In an attempt to salvage something from the fiasco the fleet put to sea, but winter storms soon forced it back to port. Edward had spent £18,000 on the war and had achieved nothing. This disaster reduced Edward's popularity in England, and gave Warwick his opportunity.
In the spring of 1469 two revolts broke out in Yorkshire. One was led by 'Robin of Holderness', and aimed at the restoration of the Percy family, who had been influential in the Holderness area of East Yorkshire. This revolt was quickly put down by John Neville, earl of Northumberland (better known as Montagu), and Robin of Holderness was executed.
The second revolt was led by a figure who called himself 'Robin of Redesdale' or 'Robin Mend-All'. Northumberland also put down Redesdale's revolt, but the leader escaped. With the revolts put down Edward decided to visit the shrines in East Anglia, setting off in June.
In the same month 'Robin of Redesdale' appeared again, this time in Lancashire. This 'Robin' was almost certainly a member of the Conyers family, important members of Warwick's affinity in the north and related to him. It isn't clear if this was actually the same person as the Yorkshire rebel, or if Warwick simply used the name to give his own revolt some credibility. Robin of Redesdale may have been Sir William Conyers of Marske, the brother of the steward of Middleham, although other members of the family have also been suggested. Whoever he was he issued a call for reform, claiming that the king was excluding the 'lords of his blood' from the council chamber (presumably meaning Warwick) and was relying on greedy favourites such as the Woodvilles, William Herbert, earl of Pembroke or Humphrey Stafford, earl of Devon.
The Campaign
News of the fresh revolt had reached Edward by 18 June at Norwich, when he instructed the royal wardrobe to send him military equipment for 1,000 men. On 20 June the artillery was mobilised and Pembroke and Devon were both ordered to raise troops. Edward had decided to take to the field in person to deal with this persistent revolt.
After that burst of activity he slowed down. He went to the shrine at Walsingham, then to his castle at Fotheringhay, where he spent a week in the company of Queen Elizabeth. By 5 July he had reached Stamford, from where he wrote to Coventry asking the city to provide 100 archers.
On 9 July the first rumours began to reach him that Warwick and Clarence were involved in some sort of plot. This was not the first time he had heard such rumours, and so at this point Edward's response was to write to them to ask them to deny the rumours. Unfortunately for Edward the rumours were true. Warwick and Clarence had met at Sandwich to finalise their plans. On 28 Warwick sent his own letters to Coventry, announcing the upcoming marriage and asking for troops. In early July the wedding party crossed to Calais, and on 11 July Warwick's brother the Archbishop of York married Clarence and Isabel Neville. On 12 July Warwick and Clarence finally came out into the open, issuing their own manifesto, which closely resembled Redesdale's, and ordering their supporters to meet them at Canterbury on 16 July.
On 10 July Edward finally realised that he was in real danger. At Newark news reached him that Robin of Redesdale was heading south with a much larger army than his own (perhaps three times as large), and more worryingly an army that contained a large number of experienced soldiers. The rebels included Sir Henry FitzHugh, Warwick's nephew, Sir Henry Neville, one of his cousins, and a large part of his northern affinity.
Faced with this large army Edward decided to withdraw south towards Nottingham and the reinforcements he was expecting. At the same time Warwick was crossing to Kent, where he received a good welcome. On 20 July Warwick left Canterbury, heading for London. At this point Edward was at Nottingham, and his reinforcements, under Pembroke and Devon, were heading north towards him.
London reluctantly led Warwick in, and given a loan of £1,000. He then moved north towards Coventry, where he hoped to join with Robin of Redesdale, who had bypassed Edward at Nottingham and was heading south. Warwick sent a cavalry detachment ahead of his army to join with the rebels
The Battle
Edward's hopes now rested on the army being formed for him by William Herbert, earl of Pembroke and Humphrey Stafford, earl of Devon. Pembroke had raised a largely cavalry force, while Devon had the infantry and archers.
On the night of 25-26 July the two parts of Edward's army became separated. According to Waurin this was due to carelessness, while Warkworth's chronicle says that Pembroke and Devon fell out over billeting arrangements in Banbury. Whatever caused this split, it would prove to be fatal on the following day, when only Pembroke's detachment would actually take part in the battle.
On the evening of 25 July Redesdale's men encountered Pembroke's force at Edgecote, near Banbury. That night the two armies camped close to each other, with a small river between them.
The battle began on the morning of 26 July with a fight for control of the river crossings. Pembroke's Welshmen held their own despite the lack of archers, and the rebels were defeated with heavy casualties. Sir John Conyer's son John was killed, as was Sir Henry Neville, while Robert Lord Ogle was mortally wounded.
The two sides pulled apart to deal with their casualties. Pembroke waited in vain for Devon to arrive with reinforcements, but the rebels were encouraged by the arrival of Warwick's advance guard, led by Sir William Parr and Sir Geoffrey Gate. In the afternoon the rebels renewed the attack, and this time they overwhelmed the Welsh who are said to have suffered very heavy casualties.
Edgecote was another battle of the Wars of the Roses to see high casualties amongst the defeated commanders. Pembroke and his brother Sir Richard Herbert were both captured, and were beheaded at Northampton on the day after the battle. Devon escaped for the moment, but was captured and executed in Somerset a few weeks after the battle. None of Edward's supporters were safe- Richard Woodville, earl River and his son Sir John Woodville were captured and executed at Coventry in August.
The Aftermath
On 29 July King Edward finally left Nottingham, apparently still unaware that his army had been defeated. When the news arrived his army seems to have deserted him (although he may simply have walked into a trap), and on the same day Edward was captured at Olney by George Neville, Archbishop of York. Edward was treated well, and was taken to Warwick Castle. Warwick appears to have acknowledged him as king, but in mid-August he was sent to Middleham. Warwick summoned a parliament, which was to meet at York, and it is possible that he intended to have Edward deposed, but he soon found that he couldn't rule the country.
With the King's 'evil advisors' dealt with, most of Redesdale's rebels simply went home. A number of local feuds erupted into open warfare in the absence of a legitimate government, and in the north Sir Humphrey Neville of Brancepeth began a Lancastrian revolt. Warwick attempted to summon an army to deal with this revolt, but discovered that hardly anyone was will to answer the call.
In mid-September Warwick was forced to release Edward. Once the king was free an army was quickly raised and the Neville revolt put down. Sir Humphrey was executed at York on 29 September, in front of the king. Edward was now able to summon his supporters to York, and Warwick's power collapsed.
Much to most people's surprise Edward chose not to punish Warwick and Clarence. Instead they were soon taken back into favour, and took part in a long meeting of the great council over the winter of 1469-70. Edward did make two significant changes during this period. While he had been in power Warwick had awarded himself a number of posts on Wales, and these were now taken away and given to Edward's youngest brother, Richard of Gloucester (the future Richard III).
More significantly Edward decided that he needed to restore the Percies - large parts of the north remained loyal to them, and they would provide a counter-balance to the Nevilles. The problem was that Warwick's brother John Neville had been made earl of Northumberland in their place, and he had remained loyal to Edward (as he would do in 1470). Henry Percy had been in prison in London since 1464, but he was now freed and Edward prepared to return his estates and titles. John Neville was given the new title of Marquess Montagu, technically a higher rank than earl of Northumberland. He was also given most of the lands recently lost by Humphrey Stafford - the former Courtenay estates in Devon and the south west. Finally his son George was make Duke of Bedford and betrothed to Edward's eldest daughter Elizabeth. On 1 March 1470 John Neville surrendered the Percy estates. Edward's attempts to compensate him for the loss of the Percy estates failed, for when Warwick invaded later in the year he finally changed sides and supported his brother against the king, forcing Edward into exile.
At the start of 1470 that must have seemed a remote possibility. Warwick had survived the events of 1469 with most of his power intact, but he wasn't content with that. Early in 1470 he attempted to repeat his successes of 1469 by supporting a revolt in Lincolnshire, but this time his allies suffered a crushing defeat at Losecote Field (12 March 1470) and after a tense stand-off Warwick would be forced into exile and an unlikely alliance with the Lancastrians."
"Battle of Edgecote, 26 July 1469
The battle of Edgecote (26 July 1469) was the first fighting in the second phase of the Wars of the Roses and saw a rebel army supported by the earl of Warwick defeat a Royal army led by the earls of Pembroke and Devon, leaving Edward IV vulnerable to capture.
Background
After the Yorkist victory in the first phase of the wars Richard Neville, earl of Warwick, had become the most powerful man in the kingdom behind Edward IV, but it soon became clear that he wasn't happy with this status. The 'kingmaker' seems to have believed that he should have been the power behind the throne, but Edward turned out to be much more independent. Although Warwick was well rewarded for his efforts on Edward's behalf he wasn't made a duke, and he also saw some Royal patronage go to the Woodvilles, Edward's wife's family. The two men also disagreed over foreign policy. Warwick was in favour of a French alliance against Burgundy, while Edward wanted an alliance with Burgundy.
The breach had first begun to open after Edward's secret marriage on 1 May 1464. Warwick spent much of the year attempting to negotiate a marriage between Edward and a French princess, so when the secret came out in the autumn Warwick was inevitably angered.
The first open breach developed in 1467 and was triggered by the disagreement over foreign policy. In 1466 Warwick had been sent to France and Burgundy on diplomatic missions, but had fallen out with Charles of Charolais, the heir to Burgundy. By the autumn Lord Rivers had been given responsibility for the negotiations with Burgundy, and in October Edward and Charles agreed a secret treaty of friendship. In May 1467 Warwick was sent to France again, while another embassy went to Burgundy. While Warwick was away his brother, the Archbishop of York, was removed as Chancellor, and after Warwick returned in June the French delegation he brought with him was snubbed by the king. In September the alliance with Burgundy, where Charles had now become duke, was made public and it was announced that Charles was to marry Edward's sister Margaret. Edward also agreed an alliance with the Duke of Brittany, and it was clear that Warwick's pro-French policy had failed.
Warwick responded by retreating to his northern estates in something of a sulk, where he began to plot against Edward. He found an ally in Edward's brother George, Duke of Clarence, an able and intelligent but unreliable man. While Edward no sons Clarence was heir presumptive. Warwick had no sons, but two daughters, and he now agreed to marry his daughter Isabel to Clarence. We don't know if Warwick was planning to depose Edward after seizing power, as his attempts to rule with a captive king failed too quickly, but this marriage did offer the prospect of a potential future grandson of Warwick on the throne. Earlier Warwick attempted to get Edward's approval for this marriage, but without success, so if the marriage went ahead it would be in defiance of the king.
In 1468 Warwick and Edward were officially reconciled, and Warwick returned to court, but underneath this public façade he was still plotting. Edward played into his hands with an unimpressive military venture. On 17 May Edward's chancellor announced that the King intended to go to war with France, in alliance with Burgundy and Brittany. Parliament granted Edward a large subsidy. Louis XI responded by supporting a small and rather unsuccessful invasion of Wales led by Jasper Tudor - so unsuccessful in fact that the long siege of Harlech came to an end on 14 August, removing the last Lancastrian foothold on English or Welsh soil. Elsewhere the war went badly. The French invaded Brittany, and in September Duke Francis made peace. On 14 October Duke Charles of Burgundy and Louis XI signed the treaty of Péronne, leaving England without allies. In an attempt to salvage something from the fiasco the fleet put to sea, but winter storms soon forced it back to port. Edward had spent £18,000 on the war and had achieved nothing. This disaster reduced Edward's popularity in England, and gave Warwick his opportunity.
In the spring of 1469 two revolts broke out in Yorkshire. One was led by 'Robin of Holderness', and aimed at the restoration of the Percy family, who had been influential in the Holderness area of East Yorkshire. This revolt was quickly put down by John Neville, earl of Northumberland (better known as Montagu), and Robin of Holderness was executed.
The second revolt was led by a figure who called himself 'Robin of Redesdale' or 'Robin Mend-All'. Northumberland also put down Redesdale's revolt, but the leader escaped. With the revolts put down Edward decided to visit the shrines in East Anglia, setting off in June.
In the same month 'Robin of Redesdale' appeared again, this time in Lancashire. This 'Robin' was almost certainly a member of the Conyers family, important members of Warwick's affinity in the north and related to him. It isn't clear if this was actually the same person as the Yorkshire rebel, or if Warwick simply used the name to give his own revolt some credibility. Robin of Redesdale may have been Sir William Conyers of Marske, the brother of the steward of Middleham, although other members of the family have also been suggested. Whoever he was he issued a call for reform, claiming that the king was excluding the 'lords of his blood' from the council chamber (presumably meaning Warwick) and was relying on greedy favourites such as the Woodvilles, William Herbert, earl of Pembroke or Humphrey Stafford, earl of Devon.
The Campaign
News of the fresh revolt had reached Edward by 18 June at Norwich, when he instructed the royal wardrobe to send him military equipment for 1,000 men. On 20 June the artillery was mobilised and Pembroke and Devon were both ordered to raise troops. Edward had decided to take to the field in person to deal with this persistent revolt.
After that burst of activity he slowed down. He went to the shrine at Walsingham, then to his castle at Fotheringhay, where he spent a week in the company of Queen Elizabeth. By 5 July he had reached Stamford, from where he wrote to Coventry asking the city to provide 100 archers.
On 9 July the first rumours began to reach him that Warwick and Clarence were involved in some sort of plot. This was not the first time he had heard such rumours, and so at this point Edward's response was to write to them to ask them to deny the rumours. Unfortunately for Edward the rumours were true. Warwick and Clarence had met at Sandwich to finalise their plans. On 28 Warwick sent his own letters to Coventry, announcing the upcoming marriage and asking for troops. In early July the wedding party crossed to Calais, and on 11 July Warwick's brother the Archbishop of York married Clarence and Isabel Neville. On 12 July Warwick and Clarence finally came out into the open, issuing their own manifesto, which closely resembled Redesdale's, and ordering their supporters to meet them at Canterbury on 16 July.
On 10 July Edward finally realised that he was in real danger. At Newark news reached him that Robin of Redesdale was heading south with a much larger army than his own (perhaps three times as large), and more worryingly an army that contained a large number of experienced soldiers. The rebels included Sir Henry FitzHugh, Warwick's nephew, Sir Henry Neville, one of his cousins, and a large part of his northern affinity.
Faced with this large army Edward decided to withdraw south towards Nottingham and the reinforcements he was expecting. At the same time Warwick was crossing to Kent, where he received a good welcome. On 20 July Warwick left Canterbury, heading for London. At this point Edward was at Nottingham, and his reinforcements, under Pembroke and Devon, were heading north towards him.
London reluctantly led Warwick in, and given a loan of £1,000. He then moved north towards Coventry, where he hoped to join with Robin of Redesdale, who had bypassed Edward at Nottingham and was heading south. Warwick sent a cavalry detachment ahead of his army to join with the rebels
The Battle
Edward's hopes now rested on the army being formed for him by William Herbert, earl of Pembroke and Humphrey Stafford, earl of Devon. Pembroke had raised a largely cavalry force, while Devon had the infantry and archers.
On the night of 25-26 July the two parts of Edward's army became separated. According to Waurin this was due to carelessness, while Warkworth's chronicle says that Pembroke and Devon fell out over billeting arrangements in Banbury. Whatever caused this split, it would prove to be fatal on the following day, when only Pembroke's detachment would actually take part in the battle.
On the evening of 25 July Redesdale's men encountered Pembroke's force at Edgecote, near Banbury. That night the two armies camped close to each other, with a small river between them.
The battle began on the morning of 26 July with a fight for control of the river crossings. Pembroke's Welshmen held their own despite the lack of archers, and the rebels were defeated with heavy casualties. Sir John Conyer's son John was killed, as was Sir Henry Neville, while Robert Lord Ogle was mortally wounded.
The two sides pulled apart to deal with their casualties. Pembroke waited in vain for Devon to arrive with reinforcements, but the rebels were encouraged by the arrival of Warwick's advance guard, led by Sir William Parr and Sir Geoffrey Gate. In the afternoon the rebels renewed the attack, and this time they overwhelmed the Welsh who are said to have suffered very heavy casualties.
Edgecote was another battle of the Wars of the Roses to see high casualties amongst the defeated commanders. Pembroke and his brother Sir Richard Herbert were both captured, and were beheaded at Northampton on the day after the battle. Devon escaped for the moment, but was captured and executed in Somerset a few weeks after the battle. None of Edward's supporters were safe- Richard Woodville, earl River and his son Sir John Woodville were captured and executed at Coventry in August.
The Aftermath
On 29 July King Edward finally left Nottingham, apparently still unaware that his army had been defeated. When the news arrived his army seems to have deserted him (although he may simply have walked into a trap), and on the same day Edward was captured at Olney by George Neville, Archbishop of York. Edward was treated well, and was taken to Warwick Castle. Warwick appears to have acknowledged him as king, but in mid-August he was sent to Middleham. Warwick summoned a parliament, which was to meet at York, and it is possible that he intended to have Edward deposed, but he soon found that he couldn't rule the country.
With the King's 'evil advisors' dealt with, most of Redesdale's rebels simply went home. A number of local feuds erupted into open warfare in the absence of a legitimate government, and in the north Sir Humphrey Neville of Brancepeth began a Lancastrian revolt. Warwick attempted to summon an army to deal with this revolt, but discovered that hardly anyone was will to answer the call.
In mid-September Warwick was forced to release Edward. Once the king was free an army was quickly raised and the Neville revolt put down. Sir Humphrey was executed at York on 29 September, in front of the king. Edward was now able to summon his supporters to York, and Warwick's power collapsed.
Much to most people's surprise Edward chose not to punish Warwick and Clarence. Instead they were soon taken back into favour, and took part in a long meeting of the great council over the winter of 1469-70. Edward did make two significant changes during this period. While he had been in power Warwick had awarded himself a number of posts on Wales, and these were now taken away and given to Edward's youngest brother, Richard of Gloucester (the future Richard III).
More significantly Edward decided that he needed to restore the Percies - large parts of the north remained loyal to them, and they would provide a counter-balance to the Nevilles. The problem was that Warwick's brother John Neville had been made earl of Northumberland in their place, and he had remained loyal to Edward (as he would do in 1470). Henry Percy had been in prison in London since 1464, but he was now freed and Edward prepared to return his estates and titles. John Neville was given the new title of Marquess Montagu, technically a higher rank than earl of Northumberland. He was also given most of the lands recently lost by Humphrey Stafford - the former Courtenay estates in Devon and the south west. Finally his son George was make Duke of Bedford and betrothed to Edward's eldest daughter Elizabeth. On 1 March 1470 John Neville surrendered the Percy estates. Edward's attempts to compensate him for the loss of the Percy estates failed, for when Warwick invaded later in the year he finally changed sides and supported his brother against the king, forcing Edward into exile.
At the start of 1470 that must have seemed a remote possibility. Warwick had survived the events of 1469 with most of his power intact, but he wasn't content with that. Early in 1470 he attempted to repeat his successes of 1469 by supporting a revolt in Lincolnshire, but this time his allies suffered a crushing defeat at Losecote Field (12 March 1470) and after a tense stand-off Warwick would be forced into exile and an unlikely alliance with the Lancastrians."
Battle of Edgecote, 26 July 1469
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2010 Re-enactment
Thank you my friend SGT (Join to see) for making us aware that during the Wars of the Roses at the Battle of Edgecote Moor, on July 26, 1469, the rebel forces of Richard Neville, 16th Earl of Warwick defeated the forces of King Edward IV.
The 1469 Battle of Edgecote
2010 Re-enactment
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Ec522U8OH4
Images:
1. A Late Medieval Battle
2. Arms of William Herbert, Earl of Pembroke
3. Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick
4. Battle of Edgcote context
1. Background from {http://www.englishmonarchs.co.uk/battle_of_edgecote_moor.html]}
After the decisive Yorkist victory at the Battle of Towton in 1461 and the destruction of the Lancastrian cause, England enjoyed a period of relative peace under Yorkist rule. However, the powerful Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick who had played a large part in the accession to the throne of England of his cousin King Edward IV, became dissatisfied as his influence at court steadily waned.
He had been deeply humiliated when Edward had informed Warwick, who at the time was conducting negotiations with Louis XI France for the hand of the Princess Bona of Savoy, that he had already secretly married Elizabeth Woodville, the impoverished widow of Sir John Grey, a Lancastrian knight.
The new queen, who proved to be avaricious and grasping, quickly persuaded her besotted spouse to arrange advantageous marriages amongst the nobility for her large and needy family. Warwick particularly resented the the "diabolical marriage" of his sixty five year old aunt, Katherine Neville, Dowager Duchess of Norfolk to John Woodville, the nineteen year old brother of the queen. Deeply offended, the proud and haughty Warwick came to detest Elizabeth Woodville.
Insult was added to injury when Edward refused to allow his younger brother, George, Duke of Clarence, the heir to the throne, to marry Warwick's eldest daughter Isabel Nevile. Clarence also heartily disliked the new Queen. Warwick possessed influence over George who had been brought up in his household. As Warwick became progressively more alienated from King Edward, he and Clarence inspired a revolt in the north of England, under the leadership of Robin of Redesdale, before sailing for Calais in July 1469, as Warwick was captain of Calais, this action raised no suspicion. The situation became further complicated by the outbreak of a separate rebellion at the same time, led by Robert Hilyard who called himself Robin of Holderness, it was aimed at restoring of the Percies to their estates. John Neville, Marquis of Montagu crushed Robin of Holderness' revolt in the name of King Edward, and Hilyard was killed at York.
While in Calais, George was married to Isabel, in defiance of his brother's wishes on 11 July 1469, the ceremony was conducted by Warwick's brother, George Neville, archbishop of York. When Edward marched north with a hastily mustered force to crush what he believed was a small rebellion, Warwick and Clarence landed in Kent and began to muster an army. They marched on London, where Warwick was highly popular, the city opened its gates to Warwick without resistance.
On discovering that the rebel forces outnumbered his, the king withdrew to Nottingham to wait for reinforcements. William Herbert, Earl of Pembroke and Humphrey Stafford, Earl of Devon were marching to his aid. Warwick and Clarence declared their support for the rebel leader Robin of Redesdale on July 12, declaring that they adhered to the cause of the "king's true subjects," who had "called upon them with piteous lamentations to be the means to our Sovereign Lord the King of remedy and reformation". Redesdale's true identity is not known, but he is thought to have have been either Sir John Conyers of Hornby, husband of Fauconberg's daughter Alice, or his brother Sir William Conyers of Marske, or even both. Warwick began advancing north with a large army to aid the rebels. Redesdale began moving south to rendezvous with Warwick, bypassing the king at Nottingham and nearing the approaching Yorkist forces of the earls of Pembroke and Devon.
On July 25, the Yorkists entered Banbury in Oxfordshire and discovered that the enemy was very near. An argument between Pembroke and Devon over billets occurred later in the day, and Devon refusing to march with Pembroke, moved south to Deddington Castle with his forces, which included the army's archers.
The next morning, Pembroke occupied a strong position on high ground at Danes Moor in Northamptonshire, six miles north east of Banbury. Robin of Redesdale positioned his army near Thorpe Manderville and took the offensive.
Volley after volley of arrows were unleashed at Pembroke's army, who, with no archers amongst them, were unable to respond in kind. Moving down the slope, the Yorkists clashed with the rebels. In the fierce hand-to-hand fighting which followed, Pembroke's army began to gain the upper hand and Robin of Redesdale may have been slain in the melee.
At 1 o'clock the Pembroke received the welcome news that Devon was advancing speedily to his aid with his force. With victory in sight, the Yorkists were alarmed to spot rebel reinforcements approaching the field wearing Warwick's colours. These were the advance guard of Warwick's forces led by Sir John Clapham. Sighting Warwick's livery the Yorkists believed that Warwick's entire force was about to descend on them, and began to panic and flee. In the ensuing rout, large numbers of Pembroke's troops were cut down.
The Earl of Pembroke was captured the next day and promptly beheaded, as was his brother Sir Richard Herbert. In the aftermath of the battle, King Edward whose followers had dispersed, was taken prisoner at Olney by George Neville, Archbishop of York. Warwick then attempted to rule in the king's name. Edward's father-in-law, Richard Woodville, Earl Rivers and his son John Woodville, were captured at Chepstow. Following a hasty show trial, they were beheaded at Kenilworth on 12 August 1469 . The Earl of Devon was also captured and executed at Bridgwater.
2. Background from {[https://schoolshistory.org.uk/topics/british-history/wars-of-the-roses/battle-of-edgecote-moor/}]
Battle of Edgecote Moor
The Battle of Edgecote Moor took place on 26th July 1469. Edgecote Moor saw the Earl of Warwick’s troops overcome an army loyal to Edward IV. This followed Warwick’s defection to the Lancastrian cause. Edward’s army was defeated at Edgecote. Shortly afterwards he was forced into temporary exile as Henry VI was put back on the throne.
In 1464 the Earl of Warwick had been negotiating a marriage on behalf of Edward IV. Edward however, married Elizabeth Woodville in secrecy. This infuriated Warwick. Over the next few years the Woodville family were given positions of power. They grew in importance and influence within Edward’s court. Warwick’s own position was challenged.
This led to disputes between Warwick and Edward. Warwick was further angered by the kings refusal to allow his daughter to wed the Duke of Clarence. Edward insisted on Clarence marrying for diplomatic purposes. Neither Clarence, the heir to the throne, or Warwick were happy with this. Their thoughts turned to rebellion.
Rebellion in the North
In the early summer of 1469 rumours were spread in the North of England that Edward IV was illegitimate. This would make the Duke of Clarence the rightful king. Warwick’s agents had spread these rumours. A small rebellion broke out as a result of the rumours. Edward marched north to deal with the issue. He stopped at Nottingham to gather recruits but, with his popularity in decline, was forced to wait for reinforcements from the Earls of Devon and Pembroke.
As Edward awaited his reinforcements both Clarence and Warwick declared their support for the rebels. Warwick had a large force at the ready and set off marching north on the 18th July. The rebels, aware of the plan, began to march south. On their way south the rebels encountered the forces of Devon and Pembroke at Edgecote Moor. The next day, 26th July, the rebels from the north engaged with the force of Pembroke and Devon.
The Battle of Edgecote Moor
The battle itself was a short one. The forces of Pembroke and Devon were separated, having camped in different villages. Though Pembroke had the larger force, the rebels were buoyed by the fact they faced only half of the enemy force. They then got an unexpected advantage. Pembroke’s men identified Warwick’s livery among the rebel force. Believing this to be the full army led by the Earl, they panicked. Many of them turned and fled before being engaged. The rebels quickly overwhelmed the remainder of Pembroke’s force. The earl was captured, along with his son. Both were executed the following day. Devon was captured several days later.
After the battle
In the days after the Battle of Edgecote Moor the rebels captured Richard Woodville, father of the queen, and his son, John at Chepstow Castle. Both were given a hastily arranged show trial by the rebels and beheaded. This marked a turning point in the wars of the roses. Edward IV was losing popularity and now losing supporters through their death on the battlefield and summary executions.
Significance
Warwick had been instrumental in getting Edward IV onto the throne. Together they had waged the successful Towton Campaign, defeating Henry VI’s forces and undoing the work of Margaret of Anjou to place the house of York on the throne. Now, Warwick was switching allegiance. Though at this point the rebellion was claiming Clarence was the rightful heir, Warwick soon allied with Margaret of Anjou and the readeption of Henry VI followed soon after. It led to Edward IV going into exile, regrouping and a few years in which the wars of the roses had military campaigns, culminating in the battles of Barnet and Tewkesbury.
Sources
When Warwick knew that Edward had started for the north, and had his attention fixed on Robin of Redesdale, he developed the second half of his plan. On July 11 the Duke of Clarence was wedded to Isabella Neville at Calais by the Archbishop of York, in open disobedience to the king’s commands. Next day Warwick, his new son-in-law, and his brother published a manifesto, to the effect that they adhered to the cause of the “king’s true subjects,” now up in arms, who had “called upon them with piteous lamentations to be the means to our Sovereign Lord the King of remedy and reformation”. They republished the manifesto of the Yorkshire rebels, testified to its righteousness, and promised to be at Canterbury within four days, where all good men were invited to meet them “defensibly arrayed”. Warwick was as good as his word; he crossed the straits at the head of the Calais garrison, was joined by many thousands of the Kentishmen, and marched on London unopposed, at the moment when all the king’s forces were moving northward. The capital opened its gates without resistance; the name of Warwick was still greater than that of the king with the Londoners. The earl then moved northward on Northampton, to attack the royalists in the rear. But before he had reached the front the campaign was over. ROBIN OF REDESDALE’S RISING by C. Oman.
FYI MSG Felipe De Leon Brown COL Mikel J. Burroughs LTC (Join to see) Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. LTC Greg Henning TSgt David L.PO1 Robert GeorgeSGT Robert PryorGySgt Thomas Vick
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The 1469 Battle of Edgecote
2010 Re-enactment
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Ec522U8OH4
Images:
1. A Late Medieval Battle
2. Arms of William Herbert, Earl of Pembroke
3. Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick
4. Battle of Edgcote context
1. Background from {http://www.englishmonarchs.co.uk/battle_of_edgecote_moor.html]}
After the decisive Yorkist victory at the Battle of Towton in 1461 and the destruction of the Lancastrian cause, England enjoyed a period of relative peace under Yorkist rule. However, the powerful Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick who had played a large part in the accession to the throne of England of his cousin King Edward IV, became dissatisfied as his influence at court steadily waned.
He had been deeply humiliated when Edward had informed Warwick, who at the time was conducting negotiations with Louis XI France for the hand of the Princess Bona of Savoy, that he had already secretly married Elizabeth Woodville, the impoverished widow of Sir John Grey, a Lancastrian knight.
The new queen, who proved to be avaricious and grasping, quickly persuaded her besotted spouse to arrange advantageous marriages amongst the nobility for her large and needy family. Warwick particularly resented the the "diabolical marriage" of his sixty five year old aunt, Katherine Neville, Dowager Duchess of Norfolk to John Woodville, the nineteen year old brother of the queen. Deeply offended, the proud and haughty Warwick came to detest Elizabeth Woodville.
Insult was added to injury when Edward refused to allow his younger brother, George, Duke of Clarence, the heir to the throne, to marry Warwick's eldest daughter Isabel Nevile. Clarence also heartily disliked the new Queen. Warwick possessed influence over George who had been brought up in his household. As Warwick became progressively more alienated from King Edward, he and Clarence inspired a revolt in the north of England, under the leadership of Robin of Redesdale, before sailing for Calais in July 1469, as Warwick was captain of Calais, this action raised no suspicion. The situation became further complicated by the outbreak of a separate rebellion at the same time, led by Robert Hilyard who called himself Robin of Holderness, it was aimed at restoring of the Percies to their estates. John Neville, Marquis of Montagu crushed Robin of Holderness' revolt in the name of King Edward, and Hilyard was killed at York.
While in Calais, George was married to Isabel, in defiance of his brother's wishes on 11 July 1469, the ceremony was conducted by Warwick's brother, George Neville, archbishop of York. When Edward marched north with a hastily mustered force to crush what he believed was a small rebellion, Warwick and Clarence landed in Kent and began to muster an army. They marched on London, where Warwick was highly popular, the city opened its gates to Warwick without resistance.
On discovering that the rebel forces outnumbered his, the king withdrew to Nottingham to wait for reinforcements. William Herbert, Earl of Pembroke and Humphrey Stafford, Earl of Devon were marching to his aid. Warwick and Clarence declared their support for the rebel leader Robin of Redesdale on July 12, declaring that they adhered to the cause of the "king's true subjects," who had "called upon them with piteous lamentations to be the means to our Sovereign Lord the King of remedy and reformation". Redesdale's true identity is not known, but he is thought to have have been either Sir John Conyers of Hornby, husband of Fauconberg's daughter Alice, or his brother Sir William Conyers of Marske, or even both. Warwick began advancing north with a large army to aid the rebels. Redesdale began moving south to rendezvous with Warwick, bypassing the king at Nottingham and nearing the approaching Yorkist forces of the earls of Pembroke and Devon.
On July 25, the Yorkists entered Banbury in Oxfordshire and discovered that the enemy was very near. An argument between Pembroke and Devon over billets occurred later in the day, and Devon refusing to march with Pembroke, moved south to Deddington Castle with his forces, which included the army's archers.
The next morning, Pembroke occupied a strong position on high ground at Danes Moor in Northamptonshire, six miles north east of Banbury. Robin of Redesdale positioned his army near Thorpe Manderville and took the offensive.
Volley after volley of arrows were unleashed at Pembroke's army, who, with no archers amongst them, were unable to respond in kind. Moving down the slope, the Yorkists clashed with the rebels. In the fierce hand-to-hand fighting which followed, Pembroke's army began to gain the upper hand and Robin of Redesdale may have been slain in the melee.
At 1 o'clock the Pembroke received the welcome news that Devon was advancing speedily to his aid with his force. With victory in sight, the Yorkists were alarmed to spot rebel reinforcements approaching the field wearing Warwick's colours. These were the advance guard of Warwick's forces led by Sir John Clapham. Sighting Warwick's livery the Yorkists believed that Warwick's entire force was about to descend on them, and began to panic and flee. In the ensuing rout, large numbers of Pembroke's troops were cut down.
The Earl of Pembroke was captured the next day and promptly beheaded, as was his brother Sir Richard Herbert. In the aftermath of the battle, King Edward whose followers had dispersed, was taken prisoner at Olney by George Neville, Archbishop of York. Warwick then attempted to rule in the king's name. Edward's father-in-law, Richard Woodville, Earl Rivers and his son John Woodville, were captured at Chepstow. Following a hasty show trial, they were beheaded at Kenilworth on 12 August 1469 . The Earl of Devon was also captured and executed at Bridgwater.
2. Background from {[https://schoolshistory.org.uk/topics/british-history/wars-of-the-roses/battle-of-edgecote-moor/}]
Battle of Edgecote Moor
The Battle of Edgecote Moor took place on 26th July 1469. Edgecote Moor saw the Earl of Warwick’s troops overcome an army loyal to Edward IV. This followed Warwick’s defection to the Lancastrian cause. Edward’s army was defeated at Edgecote. Shortly afterwards he was forced into temporary exile as Henry VI was put back on the throne.
In 1464 the Earl of Warwick had been negotiating a marriage on behalf of Edward IV. Edward however, married Elizabeth Woodville in secrecy. This infuriated Warwick. Over the next few years the Woodville family were given positions of power. They grew in importance and influence within Edward’s court. Warwick’s own position was challenged.
This led to disputes between Warwick and Edward. Warwick was further angered by the kings refusal to allow his daughter to wed the Duke of Clarence. Edward insisted on Clarence marrying for diplomatic purposes. Neither Clarence, the heir to the throne, or Warwick were happy with this. Their thoughts turned to rebellion.
Rebellion in the North
In the early summer of 1469 rumours were spread in the North of England that Edward IV was illegitimate. This would make the Duke of Clarence the rightful king. Warwick’s agents had spread these rumours. A small rebellion broke out as a result of the rumours. Edward marched north to deal with the issue. He stopped at Nottingham to gather recruits but, with his popularity in decline, was forced to wait for reinforcements from the Earls of Devon and Pembroke.
As Edward awaited his reinforcements both Clarence and Warwick declared their support for the rebels. Warwick had a large force at the ready and set off marching north on the 18th July. The rebels, aware of the plan, began to march south. On their way south the rebels encountered the forces of Devon and Pembroke at Edgecote Moor. The next day, 26th July, the rebels from the north engaged with the force of Pembroke and Devon.
The Battle of Edgecote Moor
The battle itself was a short one. The forces of Pembroke and Devon were separated, having camped in different villages. Though Pembroke had the larger force, the rebels were buoyed by the fact they faced only half of the enemy force. They then got an unexpected advantage. Pembroke’s men identified Warwick’s livery among the rebel force. Believing this to be the full army led by the Earl, they panicked. Many of them turned and fled before being engaged. The rebels quickly overwhelmed the remainder of Pembroke’s force. The earl was captured, along with his son. Both were executed the following day. Devon was captured several days later.
After the battle
In the days after the Battle of Edgecote Moor the rebels captured Richard Woodville, father of the queen, and his son, John at Chepstow Castle. Both were given a hastily arranged show trial by the rebels and beheaded. This marked a turning point in the wars of the roses. Edward IV was losing popularity and now losing supporters through their death on the battlefield and summary executions.
Significance
Warwick had been instrumental in getting Edward IV onto the throne. Together they had waged the successful Towton Campaign, defeating Henry VI’s forces and undoing the work of Margaret of Anjou to place the house of York on the throne. Now, Warwick was switching allegiance. Though at this point the rebellion was claiming Clarence was the rightful heir, Warwick soon allied with Margaret of Anjou and the readeption of Henry VI followed soon after. It led to Edward IV going into exile, regrouping and a few years in which the wars of the roses had military campaigns, culminating in the battles of Barnet and Tewkesbury.
Sources
When Warwick knew that Edward had started for the north, and had his attention fixed on Robin of Redesdale, he developed the second half of his plan. On July 11 the Duke of Clarence was wedded to Isabella Neville at Calais by the Archbishop of York, in open disobedience to the king’s commands. Next day Warwick, his new son-in-law, and his brother published a manifesto, to the effect that they adhered to the cause of the “king’s true subjects,” now up in arms, who had “called upon them with piteous lamentations to be the means to our Sovereign Lord the King of remedy and reformation”. They republished the manifesto of the Yorkshire rebels, testified to its righteousness, and promised to be at Canterbury within four days, where all good men were invited to meet them “defensibly arrayed”. Warwick was as good as his word; he crossed the straits at the head of the Calais garrison, was joined by many thousands of the Kentishmen, and marched on London unopposed, at the moment when all the king’s forces were moving northward. The capital opened its gates without resistance; the name of Warwick was still greater than that of the king with the Londoners. The earl then moved northward on Northampton, to attack the royalists in the rear. But before he had reached the front the campaign was over. ROBIN OF REDESDALE’S RISING by C. Oman.
FYI MSG Felipe De Leon Brown COL Mikel J. Burroughs LTC (Join to see) Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. LTC Greg Henning TSgt David L.PO1 Robert GeorgeSGT Robert PryorGySgt Thomas Vick
MAJ Dale E. Wilson, Ph.D. SMSgt Lawrence McCarter CPL Dave Hoover CPL Douglas Chrysler SP5 Mark Kuzinski SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL MSG Andrew White MAJ Bill Maynard Maj William W. 'Bill' Price COL (Join to see)
(6)
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LTC Stephen F.
Image: War of the Roses battles map
Chronology of the war of the Roses
from [https://www.timeref.com/episodes/wars_of_the_roses.htm#:~:text=The%20battles%20of%20the%20Wars,England%20from%201327%20to%201377.}
Episode Events
1447 ...
Edmund Beaufort appointed lieutenant of France
Edmund Beaufort was appointed lieutenant of France. Richard of York had wanted to be re-appointed to the position. Edmund and Richard became rivals in the battles of the Wars of the Roses.
1450
May 1450 Revolt in Kent
Jack Cade was the leader of a rebellion that began in Kent and elsewhere in the south east of England. The rebels' grievances were directed at the king's councillors who were using their influence on the king for their own gains.
May 1450 Death of William de la Pole
William de la Pole, Duke of Suffolk was accused by Parliament of being the cause of the country's problems. Suffolk was arrested and imprisoned. The King allowed the Duke to be banished rather than executed but as he left the country he was attacked and killed.
Jun 1450 London ransacked by the rebels
The rebels under the command of Jack Cade defeated a section of King Henry's army at Sevenoaks and entered London. The rebels ransacked the city and after crossing London Bridge to the south were prevented crossing back to the north by angry Londoners. The rebels were defeated and fled.
July 1450 Jack Cade killed
After the defeat of the rebels in London Jack Cade fled but was pursued. He was caught and killed while resisting arrest.
1451
Qtr 4, 1451 York starts an uprising
The Duke of York writes to supporters in Norfolk asking for their support in an uprising against the King.
1452
Feb
The Duke of York marches on London
The Duke of York gathered an army and marched on London intent on persuading the king to remove Somerset from power, King Henry took an army north to Northampton to prevent Yorkist supporters in the east joining York in the west. The king also sent word to the city of London to not allow York to enter, Learning that he was refused entry to the city the Duke continued south and crossed the the river Thames at Kingston. York moved his army to Dartford while the king came back south to London.
1453
Aug 1453 The King's health suffers
From August 1453 until the end of 1454, the mental health of King Henry VI was such that he was unable to conduct the day-to-day government of the country. The illness was some kind of mental condition possibly inherited from his grandfather Charles VI of France who also suffered from bouts of madness.
October 13, 1453 Prince Edward of Lancaster is born
Edward of Westminster, also known as Edward of Lancaster, King Henry's and Margaret of Anjou's only son, was born at Westminster.
November 1453 Somerset sent to the Tower
Edmund Beaufort, the duke of Somerset was unpopular and only kept his position of power with the support of the King. While King Henry VI was ill Somerset was sent to the Tower of London.
1454
March 27, 1454 Richard, Duke of York made Protector
With the King unable to govern, the queen with the support of the powerful Neville Earls gave Richard, Duke of York the position of 'Protector of England'.
April 2, 1454 Earl of Salisbury becomes chancellor
With Richard, Duke of York running the country, several changes were made, one of which was to make the elder Richard Neville chancellor. Richard also made himself the Captain of Calais removing his rival the Earl of Somerset from the post.
December 1454 Henry's health returns
Henry returned to health and Edward, the Duke of York was removed from the position of Protector.
1455
February 1455 Somerset released from the Tower
With Henry back in power the Duke of Somerset was released from captivity.
March 1455 Somerset back in command
Henry's return to sanity swung the balance of power back to favour the Duke of Somerset and he was quickly restored to his former position of Captain of Calais. The Yorkists at this time felt it wise to leave London in fear of reprisals.
May 21, 1455 The Yorkists are summoned
A council was called and the Edward and Warwick were summoned to attend. Concerned that the reason they have been called to attend was that they would be punished, the Yorkists decided to demand a meeting of their own with the King at St. Albans.
May 22, 1455 Battle of St. Albans
King Henry VI had by his side at St. Albans the Dukes of Somerset and Buckingham, Lords Pembroke, Northumberland and Devon and around 2,000 Lancastrian men. They tried to hold the town against the Yorkists led by Salisbury and Warwick but Warwick was able to enter the town through an unguarded spot and attack the flanks of the Lancastrian barricades. Although this battle was small it left the Duke of Somerset dead along with Lord Northumberland and Clifford. As a result of this victory power again swung to the Yorkists although support from the Barons was not total. Richard, Duke of York, again became Protector of the Realm and the powerful position of Captain of Calais was given to the Earl of Warwick.
July 1455 Parliament held
A Parliament was held after the Battle of St. Albans to confirm the changes of appointment. Richard, Duke of York became protector for the second time.
October 1455 Henry VI becomes ill once more
King Henry VI suffered another bout of mental illness. This time to last until February of the following year.
1456
February 25, 1456 Duke of York resigns as protector
King Henry VI again came around from a bout of mental illness and Richard, Duke of York, was relieved of position of protector of the realm.
1458
March 24, 1458 Loveday march
In an attempt to bring both Yorkists and Lancastrians together in peace, King Henry VI led a march of both parties to a ceremony at St. Paul's Cathedral.
1459
June 24, 1459 Great Council
A council at Coventry decided that the Yorkists should be brought under control by the use of force.
September 1459 Warwick returns to England
The Earl of Warwick arrived in England from Calais. He was welcomed in London before setting off north to meet up with the Duke of York.
September 23, 1459 Battle of Blore Heath
Led by Richard Earl of Salisbury the Yorkists in the north mobilised an army and headed south to meet the Duke of York at Ludlow. Salisbury was intercepted by a Lancastrian army led by Lord Audley at Blore Heath in Shropshire. The Lancastrians were the first to attack. Their first and second cavalry charges were repulsed and when the Lancastrian foot soldiers were also repulsed they turned and fled. In the battle Audley was killed and although two of Salisbury's sons were captured they were quickly released. The Yorkists had won this battle.
October 12, 1459 Battle of Ludford Bridge
The Earl of Warwick with a force from Calais reached Ludlow and the combined army of the Yorkists attacked the King's army at Ludford Bridge near Ludlow. The men from Calais refused to fight their king and a weak Yorkist army was defeated. Richard Duke of York and his younger son escaped and fled to Ireland while Salisbury, Warwick and Edward of March (later Edward IV) fled to Calais.
November 1459 Parliament acts against the Yorkists
At a Parliament called in Coventry the Yorkists are condemned as rebels and their land was confiscated by the crown.
1460
January 15, 1460 Yorkists capture Lancastrian fleet
The Lancastrians were building a large fleet of ships at Sandwich on the south coast and with it they planned to attack Calais. The Earl of Warwick became aware of this and arranged a raid led by John Dinham to steal the ships. Early in the morning of the fifteenth of January the Yorkists supporters attacked the dockyard and stole those ships that were seaworthy. Richard Woodville (Earl Rivers), his wife Jacquetta and their son Anthony were captured.
March 1460 Warwick sails to Ireland
With the Yorkists in control of the seas around the south coast of England, the Earl of Warwick was able to leave Calais and sail to Ireland where the Duke of York had taken refuge. There they planned their invasion of England and the defeat of the Lancastrians.
May 1460 Warwick returns to Calais
With plans of invasion made the Earl of Warwick sailed back to Calais to organise his army.
June 1460 Yorkists take control of Kent
Yorkists from Calais landed on the south coast of England and quickly seized Sandwich. They prepared for the arrival of the Earl of Warwick and the Earl of March.
Summer 1460 Queen Margaret flees to Wales
After the Lancastrian defeat at Northampton, Queen Margaret and her son Edward escaped to Wales and the safety of Harlech Castle.
June 26, 1460 Earls of March and Warwick land in England
Once the Yorkist army had secured Sandwich the Earls of March and Warwick arrived from Calais. They had a force of around 2,000 and the support of the Kentish men.
July 2, 1460 Yorkists enter London
The Yorkists marched first to Canterbury where the officers in charge of protecting the town against them joined forces with the rebels. They then moved on and arrived at London on July 2nd. There they were welcomed by the Mayor of London and the Archbishop of Canterbury.
July 5, 1460 The Earls of Warwick and March leave London
Accompanied by a large army of Yorkist supporters, the Earl of Warwick and Edward, the Earl of March left London and marched towards Northampton where the King was staying.
July 10, 1460 Battle of Northampton
The Lancastrians’ Court was in Coventry at the time of the Yorkist rebels entering London. When news reached them, the Lancastrians moved south to Northampton to meet the rebels. The Yorkists led by the Earl of Warwick wanted to talk but the Lancastrians led by the Duke of Buckingham wanted to fight. Although the Lancastrians had less men than the Yorkists, they did have control of a stronger position. The Yorkists managed to defeat the Lancastrians due to a section of the Lancastrian army led by Lord Grey of Ruthin moving away allowing the Yorkists through. Orders were given that the King and ordinary men should be spared, while the knights and lords should be killed. When the fighting was over the casualties were light, but the Lancastrian leaders, Buckingham, Shrewsbury and Egremont were dead and the King was captured.
July 19, 1460 Garrison at Tower of London surrenders
The Lancastrian garrison holding the Tower of London surrendered. Lord Scrope tried to escape but was seen and killed by the river, but most of the garrison escaped.
July 30, 1460 Yorkists in power
Now that the Yorkists had control of the King, they started moves to regain their confiscated lands and reverse the sentences of the attainder passed by the Coventry Parliament. To this end they sent letters demanding Parliament should meet on 7th October. George Neville, the Kingmaker's brother was made chancellor of England.
October 1460 Duke of York claims throne
Richard, Duke of York returned from Ireland to claim the throne of England as a direct descendant of Edward III. The Lords refused to abandon Henry VI and Parliament agreed he should remain King until his death after which Richard or his heir should become the next king of England.
December 30, 1460 Battle of Wakefield
Queen Margaret had been building an army in the North and started attacking Yorkist held settlements. Richard left London with a small army to deal with the Queen. He had underestimated the Lancastrians and at his castle at Sandal Richard was confronted by superior forces. Although Richard sent word to the Earl of March for assistance he didn't wait and attacked. The battle left Richard Duke of York and his son Earl of Rutland dead.
1461
February 2, 1461 Battle of Mortimers Cross
Edward Earl of March, now the heir to the English throne, showed off his military skills at the Battle of Mortimer's Cross in Herefordshire. The Lancastrians with Welsh support had caught Edward as he travelled to London. On the morning of the battle three bright lights were seen in the sky. Edward used this strange sight as a good omen. The Lancastrians were defeated and Owen Tudor was captured and beheaded. Jasper Tudor escaped.
February 17, 1461 Second Battle of St. Albans
The Lancastrians army led by the Queen met the Yorkist army led by Warwick at St. Albans. The Yorkist army was split in two and during the battle sections of the Yorkists defected to the Queen's side. The Yorkists were defeated and Warwick escaped. The King, who had been travelling with the Yorkists, was freed and he was reunited with his wife and son.
February 27, 1461 Yorkists enter London
Edward and Warwick were allowed to enter the city of London. The citizens of London had refused to let the Queen enter and so she returned north with the King.
March 4, 1461 Edward IV is proclaimed king
Edward, the Earl of March, was crowned King Edward IV of England at London by the available peers and public acclamation.
March 13, 1461 Edward leaves London
Edward IV with a large army left London to march north and face the Lancastrians. Richard and George, the young sons of the late Duke of York were put on a ship and sent to Burgundy where they would be safe from Lancastrian hands.
March 28, 1461 Battle of Ferrybridge
This small battle occurred just before the larger battle of Towton. The Lancastrians were defeated and John Clifford, Lord Clifford was killed.
March 29, 1461 Battle of Towton
The Battle of Towton was the bloodiest battle of the Wars of the Roses and was fought in a snowstorm at Towton in Yorkshire. Both the Lancastrian and Yorkist armies were large having possibly 40,000 men each. The battle lasted many hours until the Lancastrians's line was broken. Fleeing into a river many of the Lancastrians were drowned due to their heavy armour and the rest were killed by the pursuing Yorkists.
June 28, 1461 Edward IV is crowned
The Yorkists were in control after the battle of Towton and Richard and George were brought back to England where they were made Knights of the Order of the Bath. Edward took part in the crown-wearing ceremonies at Westminster Abbey and became King of England. Shortly afterwards his younger brother George was given the title of Duke of Clarence.
July 1461 Lancastrian Embassy in France
An embassy of several Lancastrians, including the Duke of Somerset, travelled to France and the court of Charles VII to ask for men and a loan of money to continue the fight against the Yorkists. But the death of Charles on the 22nd put an end to their plans. Their situation became serious when they were arrested. The new French King, Louis XI, at this stage of the Wars of the Roses was a Yorkist supporter.
September 1461 Pembroke Castle captured
Pembroke Castle was captured by William Herbert. The young Henry Tudor was found in the castle where he had been hiding.
October 1461 Lancastrians lose castles in Wales
By October the Lancastrians were losing control of the castles that they held in Wales.
Nov Pembroke Castle in Yorkist hands
William Herbert was given the castle at Pembroke in recognition of his assistance to Edward IV. Herbert was made the guardian of the future Henry VII who was living at the castle.
1462
...Carreg Cennen demolished
Carreg Cennen Castle was captured from the Lancastrians by the Yorkists. To prevent it from being used as a castle again 500 men were employed to take it apart. The castle has remained a ruin ever since.
Februart 1462 A plot to kill the king
A Lancastrian plot to kill King Edward IV was uncovered early in the year. Edward was planning to go north to deal with the Scots and the plotters planned to follow him north and kill him. One of the leaders was the 12th Earl of Oxford, John de Vere. Both the Earl and his eldest son where executed for treason.
April 1462 Queen Margaret sails to France
In an attempt to raise support for the Lancastrian cause, Queen Margaret sailed from Scotland to Brittany. She hoped she could get support from the French King, Louis XI.
June 28, 1462 Queen Margaret and Louis XI
Queen Margaret of England and Louis XI of France signed a treaty. Margaret promised that Calais would be returned to the French if he helped her return her husband King Henry VI of England to the throne.
October 25, 1462 Queen Margaret invades
Queen Margaret landed near Bamburgh Castle on the Northumbrian coast with a small army. The main castles in the area, Alnwick, Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh surrendered to the Queen.
November 13, 1462 Queen Margaret retreats to Scotland
Edward acted quickly to Queen Margaret's arrival in the north. He raised a large army that marched towards Northumbria. Queen Margaret did not have the resources and local support required to fight Edward and so she decided to seek refuge in Scotland. A garrison of soldiers were left at the three Northumbrian castles.
December 1462 Yorkists take back control of Northumbrian castles
The Earl of Warwick was put in charge of capturing the castles from the Lancastrian garrisons. Edward had to stay at Durham to recover from a bout of the measles. The castles were not attacked but cut off from supplies to starve the soldiers out. Just before the new year the Lancastrian soldiers surrendered and the Yorkists took control of Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh Castles. Warwick used the castle at Warkworth as his base while he monitored the seiges at the other castles. The seige of Alnwick Castle continued into January.
1463
January 6, 1463 Alnwick Castle surrenders to the Yorkists
The Lancastrians inside Alnwick Castle were short of supplies so an army from Scotland under the control of George Douglas, the 4th Earl of Angus marched down to assist. When the Scottish army arrived at the castle, the Yorkists who were beseiging the castle withdrew allowing many of those inside to escape. Douglas did not attack the Yorkists but turned with the rescued men back to Scotland. The Yorkists returned to the castle and those Lancastrians that had not been able to escape surrendered.
March 1463 Northumbrian castles fall to Lancastrians
Sir Ralph Percy, the constable in charge of Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh castles, defected and allowed the Lancastrians to take control. Alnwick Castle fell to the Lancastrians shortly afterwards.
May 1463 Alnwick Castle in Lancastrian hands
Alnwick Castle was captured by the Lancastrians.
July 1463 Queen Margaret returns to France
Warwick took an army north to deal with the new threat from Queen Margaret. The Lancastrians had laid seige to Norham Castle on the Scottish border. Under the control of the Earl of Warwick, the Yorkists again proved too powerful for the Lancastrians and with her invasion plans in ruin Margaret decided to return to France. She took Prince Edward with her.
July 1463 Siege of Norham Castle
Queen Margaret and King Henry VI with Scottish support besieged the castle at Norham. King Edward failed to react to the problem and it was left to the Earls of Warwick and Northumberland to come to the castle's rescue. King Henry, Margaret and the Scots fled.
October 1463 Treaty with France
King Edward IV agreed a peace treaty with France in which both sides promising not to assist each others enemies. This was a disaster for the Lancastrians who had hoped that they could get French assistance against the English king.
December 1463 Duke of Somerset rebels
Henry Beaufort, Duke of Somerset and Lancastrian supporters rebelled against Edward and used Bamburgh Castle as a base.
December 1463 English Truce with Scotland
Edward IV agreed a truce with Scotland who had lost interest in fighting for the Lancastrians and Queen Margaret. The truce was signed at York and Edward spent Christmas in the city.
1464
April 25, 1464 Battle of Hedgeley Moor
The Battle of Hedgeley Moor took place a few miles from Alnwick. Lord Montague was attempting to meet Scottish envoys and escort then back to York for peace talks. The Lancastrians wanted to put an end to these plans and attacked Montague's army. Lancastrians involved in the battle were Somerset, Roos, Hungerford, , Sir Ralph Percy, Sir Richard Tunstall and Sir Thomas Finderne. Percy was killed in the battle. The Yorkist army was too strong for the Lancastrians and won the day.
May 1464 Edward secretly marries
King Edward IV married Elizabeth Woodville (Wydville) secretly during a hunting trip. The hunting trip that may have been arranged as a cover. Edward is supposed to have had a reputation as a lady's man and had many lovers. To Edward, Elizabeth could have been just another lover, but Elizabeth may have wanted more and persuaded Edward to marry her. The marriage took place in secret and was kept quiet until the spring of 1465. One problem with the marriage was that Elizabeth was the widow of Henry V's brother John, a Lancastrian and her family were Lancastrian supporters. The other problem was that Warwick had contacted the French king Louis XI and had been trying to arrange a marriage for Edward to a French princess. Edward's act upset Warwick's plans.
May 1464 Battle of Hexham
The Nevilles defeated the last of the Lancastrian forces near Hexham and executed the rebels including Henry Beaufort the Duke of Somerset. In recognition of their contribution to the security of his reign Edward IV gave John Neville, Lord Montagu, the title of Earl of Northumberland and George Neville became the Archbishop of York.
June 1464 Herbert becomes Constable of Harlech
William Herbert was given the title of Constable of Harlech Castle by Edward IV and told to capture the castle from the Lancastrians. But the castle was strongly fortified and a lengthy seige began.
June 23, 1464 Alnwick Castle Surrenders to Warwick
After the Lancastrians were defeated at the Battle of Hexham their power in Northumberland was at an end. The Earl of Warwick accepted the surrender of Alnwick Castle on June the 23rd. Dunstanburgh Castle surrendered shortly afterwards. The seige at Bamburgh Castle was brought to an end with the use of cannons, the first castle to fall in such a way.
September 14 Council at Reading
At the Great Council at Reading Abbey King Edward IV announced his marriage and Elizabeth Woodville was recognized as Queen.
1465
May 26, 1465 Elizabeth crowned
Elizabeth Woodville was finally crowned Queen at Westminster Abbey.
Summer Henry VI captured
Henry had been helped by Lancastrian supporters in the north but was finally captured at Waddington Hall. He was taken to London and put in the Tower.
1468
Jul Jasper Tudor's invasion
King Louis XI of France provided Jasper Tudor, the Earl of Pembroke, with three ships and fifty soldiers to invade Wales. The small invasion force planned to gain support against Edward IV and help the Lancastrian garrison trapped at Harlech Castle. The castle was surrounded by the English so Pembroke attacked and occupied Denbigh gaining many supporters. Lord Herbert was dispatched to deal with the threat and defeated Pembroke who managed to escape.
Qtr 4 Warwick plots against the King
Warwick was unhappy with the marriage of Edward and Elizabeth Woodville and he began to plan how overthrow the king. Warwick's plans centred around Edward's brother George, the Duke of Clarence. If George was to marry Warwick's daughter Isabel and become king, Warwick would be back in a position of power.
1469
Qtr 1 Rebellion of Robin of Redesdale
A rebellion began early in the year started by a mysterious person calling himself Robin of Redesdale. The motivation for the uprising against the king was his marriage to Elizabeth Woodville and the influence the Woodvilles were having. The rebels were supported by the Earl of Warwick.
June, 1469 Edward advances against rebels
Edward and the Duke of Gloucester took a small army in search of the rebels in the North.
Jul Clarence marries Isabel Neville
Warwick and the Duke of Clarence travelled to France where Clarence was married to Warwick's fifteen year old daughter Isabel. The ceremony was conducted by Warwick's brother George Neville the Archbishop of York.
July 18, 1469 Warwick returns from France
Richard Neville, the Earl of Warwick returned from France to England with an army, passing through Canterbury and London. His plan was to take the army north and join up with the Rebels led by Robin of Redesdale.
July 26, 1469 Battle of Edgecote
Edward's army was insufficient to deal with the rebels alone and he had moved them to Nottingham to wait for a larger army to join them led by Sir William Herbert, the Earl of Pembroke. Pembroke's army was attacked and defeated by a combined rebel army led by Robin of Redesdale and the Earl of Warwick who had returned from France. The battle took place at Edgecote near Banbury. Sir William Herbert and his brother Richard were captured and executed.
Jul 29 Edward is captured
After the defeat of William Herbert at Edgecote, Edward was left without a strong enough army to deal with the Earl of Warwick. Either Edward's army deserted him, or he dispersed his army on purpose, the outcome was the same. Edward was captured.
Aug Woodville family members executed
While Edward was imprisoned, Warwick captured the Queen's father (Earl Rivers) and one of her brothers and had them executed at Warwick Castle.
Sep Riots and rebellions
With the king in custody there began a series of riots around the country protesting against the Earl of Warwick. Warwick did not have the backing of Parliament and in the end had little choice but to let Edward go free and return to rule the country.
1470
March 12, 1470 Lincolnshire rebellion
A rebellion had begun in Lincolnshire early in the year and had been mostly been dealt with by Edward, but Sir Robert (Welles ?) had escaped capture and was still on the run. Edward finally caught up with Sir Robert near Stamford in Lincolnshire. In the battle known as Empingham (or Lose-Coat), Sir Robert was captured and confessed that the rebellion had been master-minded by the Earl of Warwick and the Duke of Clarence.
May 1470 Warwick and Clarence escape to France
After their treachery had been uncovered, the Earl of Warwick and Duke of Clarence fled to France. Warwick's plan was to get help from the French King. They took a ship with their immediate relatives and followers from either Exeter or Dartmouth. Isabella, Warwick's daughter, gave birth on the ship to a son, but he died shortly afterwards.
July 22, 1470 Warwick and the Lancastrians
Louis XI, the French King devised a plan to remove Edward IV from the English throne. Louis persuaded the Yorkist Earl of Warwick and Margaret of Anjou the exiled wife of Henry VI, a Lancastrian, to combine forces and attempt to over through Edward. Warwick and Margaret met on 22 July at Anger Cathedral to put their differences aside and to agree on a course of action.
July 25, 1470 Betrothal of Prince Edward and Anne Neville
The betrothal of Prince Edward and Anne Neville formed part of the agreement between Queen Margaret and the Kingmaker to put King Henry VI back on the English throne. The act taking place at the Cathedral of Angers,
July 31, 1470 The plan to restore Henry VI
The Earl of Warwick promised to restore Henry VI to the English throne, and he betrothed his youngest daughter Anne to Margaret's son Edward, the Prince of Wales.
September 9, 1470 Warwick sails from France
With an army and over fifty ships provided by King Louis, the Earl of Warwick set sail from France to England.
September 13, 1470 Warwick lands in England
The Earl of Warwick landed at Dartmouth in Devon accompanied by the Lancastrian Earl of Oxford and Jasper Tudor, the half-brother of Henry VI. Edward was in the north at the time of Warwick's return and was turned upon by John Neville, Warwick's brother. Although John Neville had accepted Edward as King, Edward had removed John's title of Earl of Northumberland earlier in the year and given it to the Percys. John Neville advanced on Edward's position with a force much larger.
October 2, 1470 Edward flees to Burgundy
Warwick did not need to fight the King. Edward was outnumbered and was almost captured by John Neville at Doncaster. Along with his brother Richard and a small party of followers, Edward travelled to Lynn in Norfolk where he sailed to Burgundy and refuge.
October 6, 1470 Henry restored as King
The Earl of Warwick and Clarence entered London. King Henry VI was released from the Tower of London. Henry was crowned King of England for the second time.
Qtr 4 Edward (V) is born
King Edward IV's wife Elizabeth gave birth to her first son. Elizabeth had taken refuge at Westminster Abbey after King Henry VI had been restored to the throne by the Earl of Warwick and King Edward had fled to Burgundy. The baby was named Edward and would be heir to the English throne.
December 13, 1470 Marriage of Edward of Lancaster and Anne Neville
The marriage between Edward of Lancaster, the son of Henry VI and Margaret of Anjou, to Anne Neville, the daughter of Richard Neville the Kingmaker was a marriage to cement the agreement that Richard and Margaret would support each other and try to get Henry VI back on the English throne. The marriage took place in France at the Chateau d'Amboise where Margaret and Edward were exiled.
1471
March 14, 1471 Edward returns to England
With a small combined force of English and Burgundians, Edward landed on the Yorkshire coast. His fleet had been hit and scattered by a storm off the coast of Norfolk. Luckily for Edward he wasn't attacked even though Lord Montagu, the Earl of Northumberland, was close by. As he marched south, Edward gained supporters and his army grew.
April 4, 1471 Clarence rejoins his brothers
George, Duke of Clarence deserted the Earl of Warwick and joined his brothers Edward and Richard. Importantly for the Yorkist cause, he brought with him a sizable army.
April 11, 1471 London opens its gates to Edward and the Yorkists
The Earl of Warwick was in Coventry and apparently unwilling to confront Edward, so Edward and Richard marched south to London. London was under the control of Warwick's brother, George Neville the Archbishop of York, but the Londoners were Yorkists and they welcomed the return of their true king. Once inside the city Edward had the Archbishop arrested and along with King Henry VI put in the Tower of London.
April 14, 1471 The Battle of Barnet
The Earl of Warwick had left Coventry to confront Edward. The armies met at Barnet just north of London in thick fog. The two battle lines overlapped and Warwick's Lancastrian men commanded by the Earl of Oxford were able to get around the Yorkists commanded by Lord Hastings. Hastings' men fled back to London with Oxford's men in hot pursuit. On the other side of the battle the Yorkists, led by Richard, were outflanking the Lancastrians and took the advantage pushing their enemy back. When Oxford's men returned to the battle they were mistakenly fired upon by their fellow Lancastrians and fled. By early evening Lord Montagu and the Earl of Warwick were dead. The Lancastrians were defeated.
May 1471 London attacked by rebels
A group of men from Kent attacked London but left the city before the victorious Edward returned after the battle of Tewkesbury.
May 4, 1472 The Battle of Tewkesbury
The Yorkists led by King Edward IV and his brother Richard Duke of Gloucester met the Lancastrians at Tewkesbury. Richard was able to outflank the Lancastrians led by Edmund Beaufort, the self-proclaimed Duke of Somerset. Once Somerset's men had been dealt with, Richard attacked the rear of the Lancastrian line which broke apart and fled. Many of the Lancastrian leaders were caught and killed including Edward the Prince of Wales. Margaret of Anjou, the wife of King Henry VI, was also captured.
May 21, 1472 The murder of Henry VI
Edward, the Earl of March arrived back in London and that night King Henry VI was murdered at the Tower of London.
1473
December 1473 Birth of Edward, Prince of Wales
Edward, the son of Richard III and Anne Neville was born at Middleham Castle.
1483
Apr 30, 1483 Richard captures the King
Richard, assisted by the Duke of Buckingham rode to Stony Stratford where they met with the King under the pretence of offering their condolences for the death of his father. Instead, they captured King Edward and took him directly to London and safe keeping in the Tower. Anthony Woodville, Earl Rivers was arrested and imprisoned at Sherriff Hutton Castle, near York.
Jun 13 Hastings executed
Lord Hastings had supported Richard against the Woodvilles and had hoped to gain some reward for his loyalty, but the Duke of Buckingham seemed more likely to be rewarded at his expense. Hastings' loyalties swayed towards the Woodvilles and when Richard found out, Hastings was arrested and executed.
1485
August 7, 1485 Henry Tudor arrives in England
Henry Tudor landed at Milford Haven in Wales avoiding the south coast which was more heavily defended and made his way north. He was given money by Charles VIII of France to pay for soldiers and ships for the invasion.
Aug 15 Henry Tudor at Shrewsbury
By August 15th, Henry Tudor had reached the town of Shrewsbury. He had gained the support of some Welsh as he marched north.
Aug 22 Battle of Bosworth
King Richard III was killed at the Battle of Bosworth and Henry Tudor was proclaimed King of England.
Oct 30 Henry Tudor is crowned.
Henry Tudor is crowned as Henry VII at Westminster Abbey.
1487
May 24 Lambert Simnel crowned in Dublin
Lambert Simnel arrived in Ireland claiming to be Edward Earl of Lincoln and true heir to the English throne. He was crowned by the Irish at Dublin as Edward VI.
Jun 16 Battle of Stoke
Henry VII fought the Earl of Lincoln and Lambert Simnel at the Battle of Stoke. The English throne was at stake. Simnel was captured and Lincoln was killed. This battle ended the Wars of the Roses.
FYI Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen 1SG Jason Hastings LTC Greg Henning PO1 William "Chip" Nagel LTC (Join to see)
Chronology of the war of the Roses
from [https://www.timeref.com/episodes/wars_of_the_roses.htm#:~:text=The%20battles%20of%20the%20Wars,England%20from%201327%20to%201377.}
Episode Events
1447 ...
Edmund Beaufort appointed lieutenant of France
Edmund Beaufort was appointed lieutenant of France. Richard of York had wanted to be re-appointed to the position. Edmund and Richard became rivals in the battles of the Wars of the Roses.
1450
May 1450 Revolt in Kent
Jack Cade was the leader of a rebellion that began in Kent and elsewhere in the south east of England. The rebels' grievances were directed at the king's councillors who were using their influence on the king for their own gains.
May 1450 Death of William de la Pole
William de la Pole, Duke of Suffolk was accused by Parliament of being the cause of the country's problems. Suffolk was arrested and imprisoned. The King allowed the Duke to be banished rather than executed but as he left the country he was attacked and killed.
Jun 1450 London ransacked by the rebels
The rebels under the command of Jack Cade defeated a section of King Henry's army at Sevenoaks and entered London. The rebels ransacked the city and after crossing London Bridge to the south were prevented crossing back to the north by angry Londoners. The rebels were defeated and fled.
July 1450 Jack Cade killed
After the defeat of the rebels in London Jack Cade fled but was pursued. He was caught and killed while resisting arrest.
1451
Qtr 4, 1451 York starts an uprising
The Duke of York writes to supporters in Norfolk asking for their support in an uprising against the King.
1452
Feb
The Duke of York marches on London
The Duke of York gathered an army and marched on London intent on persuading the king to remove Somerset from power, King Henry took an army north to Northampton to prevent Yorkist supporters in the east joining York in the west. The king also sent word to the city of London to not allow York to enter, Learning that he was refused entry to the city the Duke continued south and crossed the the river Thames at Kingston. York moved his army to Dartford while the king came back south to London.
1453
Aug 1453 The King's health suffers
From August 1453 until the end of 1454, the mental health of King Henry VI was such that he was unable to conduct the day-to-day government of the country. The illness was some kind of mental condition possibly inherited from his grandfather Charles VI of France who also suffered from bouts of madness.
October 13, 1453 Prince Edward of Lancaster is born
Edward of Westminster, also known as Edward of Lancaster, King Henry's and Margaret of Anjou's only son, was born at Westminster.
November 1453 Somerset sent to the Tower
Edmund Beaufort, the duke of Somerset was unpopular and only kept his position of power with the support of the King. While King Henry VI was ill Somerset was sent to the Tower of London.
1454
March 27, 1454 Richard, Duke of York made Protector
With the King unable to govern, the queen with the support of the powerful Neville Earls gave Richard, Duke of York the position of 'Protector of England'.
April 2, 1454 Earl of Salisbury becomes chancellor
With Richard, Duke of York running the country, several changes were made, one of which was to make the elder Richard Neville chancellor. Richard also made himself the Captain of Calais removing his rival the Earl of Somerset from the post.
December 1454 Henry's health returns
Henry returned to health and Edward, the Duke of York was removed from the position of Protector.
1455
February 1455 Somerset released from the Tower
With Henry back in power the Duke of Somerset was released from captivity.
March 1455 Somerset back in command
Henry's return to sanity swung the balance of power back to favour the Duke of Somerset and he was quickly restored to his former position of Captain of Calais. The Yorkists at this time felt it wise to leave London in fear of reprisals.
May 21, 1455 The Yorkists are summoned
A council was called and the Edward and Warwick were summoned to attend. Concerned that the reason they have been called to attend was that they would be punished, the Yorkists decided to demand a meeting of their own with the King at St. Albans.
May 22, 1455 Battle of St. Albans
King Henry VI had by his side at St. Albans the Dukes of Somerset and Buckingham, Lords Pembroke, Northumberland and Devon and around 2,000 Lancastrian men. They tried to hold the town against the Yorkists led by Salisbury and Warwick but Warwick was able to enter the town through an unguarded spot and attack the flanks of the Lancastrian barricades. Although this battle was small it left the Duke of Somerset dead along with Lord Northumberland and Clifford. As a result of this victory power again swung to the Yorkists although support from the Barons was not total. Richard, Duke of York, again became Protector of the Realm and the powerful position of Captain of Calais was given to the Earl of Warwick.
July 1455 Parliament held
A Parliament was held after the Battle of St. Albans to confirm the changes of appointment. Richard, Duke of York became protector for the second time.
October 1455 Henry VI becomes ill once more
King Henry VI suffered another bout of mental illness. This time to last until February of the following year.
1456
February 25, 1456 Duke of York resigns as protector
King Henry VI again came around from a bout of mental illness and Richard, Duke of York, was relieved of position of protector of the realm.
1458
March 24, 1458 Loveday march
In an attempt to bring both Yorkists and Lancastrians together in peace, King Henry VI led a march of both parties to a ceremony at St. Paul's Cathedral.
1459
June 24, 1459 Great Council
A council at Coventry decided that the Yorkists should be brought under control by the use of force.
September 1459 Warwick returns to England
The Earl of Warwick arrived in England from Calais. He was welcomed in London before setting off north to meet up with the Duke of York.
September 23, 1459 Battle of Blore Heath
Led by Richard Earl of Salisbury the Yorkists in the north mobilised an army and headed south to meet the Duke of York at Ludlow. Salisbury was intercepted by a Lancastrian army led by Lord Audley at Blore Heath in Shropshire. The Lancastrians were the first to attack. Their first and second cavalry charges were repulsed and when the Lancastrian foot soldiers were also repulsed they turned and fled. In the battle Audley was killed and although two of Salisbury's sons were captured they were quickly released. The Yorkists had won this battle.
October 12, 1459 Battle of Ludford Bridge
The Earl of Warwick with a force from Calais reached Ludlow and the combined army of the Yorkists attacked the King's army at Ludford Bridge near Ludlow. The men from Calais refused to fight their king and a weak Yorkist army was defeated. Richard Duke of York and his younger son escaped and fled to Ireland while Salisbury, Warwick and Edward of March (later Edward IV) fled to Calais.
November 1459 Parliament acts against the Yorkists
At a Parliament called in Coventry the Yorkists are condemned as rebels and their land was confiscated by the crown.
1460
January 15, 1460 Yorkists capture Lancastrian fleet
The Lancastrians were building a large fleet of ships at Sandwich on the south coast and with it they planned to attack Calais. The Earl of Warwick became aware of this and arranged a raid led by John Dinham to steal the ships. Early in the morning of the fifteenth of January the Yorkists supporters attacked the dockyard and stole those ships that were seaworthy. Richard Woodville (Earl Rivers), his wife Jacquetta and their son Anthony were captured.
March 1460 Warwick sails to Ireland
With the Yorkists in control of the seas around the south coast of England, the Earl of Warwick was able to leave Calais and sail to Ireland where the Duke of York had taken refuge. There they planned their invasion of England and the defeat of the Lancastrians.
May 1460 Warwick returns to Calais
With plans of invasion made the Earl of Warwick sailed back to Calais to organise his army.
June 1460 Yorkists take control of Kent
Yorkists from Calais landed on the south coast of England and quickly seized Sandwich. They prepared for the arrival of the Earl of Warwick and the Earl of March.
Summer 1460 Queen Margaret flees to Wales
After the Lancastrian defeat at Northampton, Queen Margaret and her son Edward escaped to Wales and the safety of Harlech Castle.
June 26, 1460 Earls of March and Warwick land in England
Once the Yorkist army had secured Sandwich the Earls of March and Warwick arrived from Calais. They had a force of around 2,000 and the support of the Kentish men.
July 2, 1460 Yorkists enter London
The Yorkists marched first to Canterbury where the officers in charge of protecting the town against them joined forces with the rebels. They then moved on and arrived at London on July 2nd. There they were welcomed by the Mayor of London and the Archbishop of Canterbury.
July 5, 1460 The Earls of Warwick and March leave London
Accompanied by a large army of Yorkist supporters, the Earl of Warwick and Edward, the Earl of March left London and marched towards Northampton where the King was staying.
July 10, 1460 Battle of Northampton
The Lancastrians’ Court was in Coventry at the time of the Yorkist rebels entering London. When news reached them, the Lancastrians moved south to Northampton to meet the rebels. The Yorkists led by the Earl of Warwick wanted to talk but the Lancastrians led by the Duke of Buckingham wanted to fight. Although the Lancastrians had less men than the Yorkists, they did have control of a stronger position. The Yorkists managed to defeat the Lancastrians due to a section of the Lancastrian army led by Lord Grey of Ruthin moving away allowing the Yorkists through. Orders were given that the King and ordinary men should be spared, while the knights and lords should be killed. When the fighting was over the casualties were light, but the Lancastrian leaders, Buckingham, Shrewsbury and Egremont were dead and the King was captured.
July 19, 1460 Garrison at Tower of London surrenders
The Lancastrian garrison holding the Tower of London surrendered. Lord Scrope tried to escape but was seen and killed by the river, but most of the garrison escaped.
July 30, 1460 Yorkists in power
Now that the Yorkists had control of the King, they started moves to regain their confiscated lands and reverse the sentences of the attainder passed by the Coventry Parliament. To this end they sent letters demanding Parliament should meet on 7th October. George Neville, the Kingmaker's brother was made chancellor of England.
October 1460 Duke of York claims throne
Richard, Duke of York returned from Ireland to claim the throne of England as a direct descendant of Edward III. The Lords refused to abandon Henry VI and Parliament agreed he should remain King until his death after which Richard or his heir should become the next king of England.
December 30, 1460 Battle of Wakefield
Queen Margaret had been building an army in the North and started attacking Yorkist held settlements. Richard left London with a small army to deal with the Queen. He had underestimated the Lancastrians and at his castle at Sandal Richard was confronted by superior forces. Although Richard sent word to the Earl of March for assistance he didn't wait and attacked. The battle left Richard Duke of York and his son Earl of Rutland dead.
1461
February 2, 1461 Battle of Mortimers Cross
Edward Earl of March, now the heir to the English throne, showed off his military skills at the Battle of Mortimer's Cross in Herefordshire. The Lancastrians with Welsh support had caught Edward as he travelled to London. On the morning of the battle three bright lights were seen in the sky. Edward used this strange sight as a good omen. The Lancastrians were defeated and Owen Tudor was captured and beheaded. Jasper Tudor escaped.
February 17, 1461 Second Battle of St. Albans
The Lancastrians army led by the Queen met the Yorkist army led by Warwick at St. Albans. The Yorkist army was split in two and during the battle sections of the Yorkists defected to the Queen's side. The Yorkists were defeated and Warwick escaped. The King, who had been travelling with the Yorkists, was freed and he was reunited with his wife and son.
February 27, 1461 Yorkists enter London
Edward and Warwick were allowed to enter the city of London. The citizens of London had refused to let the Queen enter and so she returned north with the King.
March 4, 1461 Edward IV is proclaimed king
Edward, the Earl of March, was crowned King Edward IV of England at London by the available peers and public acclamation.
March 13, 1461 Edward leaves London
Edward IV with a large army left London to march north and face the Lancastrians. Richard and George, the young sons of the late Duke of York were put on a ship and sent to Burgundy where they would be safe from Lancastrian hands.
March 28, 1461 Battle of Ferrybridge
This small battle occurred just before the larger battle of Towton. The Lancastrians were defeated and John Clifford, Lord Clifford was killed.
March 29, 1461 Battle of Towton
The Battle of Towton was the bloodiest battle of the Wars of the Roses and was fought in a snowstorm at Towton in Yorkshire. Both the Lancastrian and Yorkist armies were large having possibly 40,000 men each. The battle lasted many hours until the Lancastrians's line was broken. Fleeing into a river many of the Lancastrians were drowned due to their heavy armour and the rest were killed by the pursuing Yorkists.
June 28, 1461 Edward IV is crowned
The Yorkists were in control after the battle of Towton and Richard and George were brought back to England where they were made Knights of the Order of the Bath. Edward took part in the crown-wearing ceremonies at Westminster Abbey and became King of England. Shortly afterwards his younger brother George was given the title of Duke of Clarence.
July 1461 Lancastrian Embassy in France
An embassy of several Lancastrians, including the Duke of Somerset, travelled to France and the court of Charles VII to ask for men and a loan of money to continue the fight against the Yorkists. But the death of Charles on the 22nd put an end to their plans. Their situation became serious when they were arrested. The new French King, Louis XI, at this stage of the Wars of the Roses was a Yorkist supporter.
September 1461 Pembroke Castle captured
Pembroke Castle was captured by William Herbert. The young Henry Tudor was found in the castle where he had been hiding.
October 1461 Lancastrians lose castles in Wales
By October the Lancastrians were losing control of the castles that they held in Wales.
Nov Pembroke Castle in Yorkist hands
William Herbert was given the castle at Pembroke in recognition of his assistance to Edward IV. Herbert was made the guardian of the future Henry VII who was living at the castle.
1462
...Carreg Cennen demolished
Carreg Cennen Castle was captured from the Lancastrians by the Yorkists. To prevent it from being used as a castle again 500 men were employed to take it apart. The castle has remained a ruin ever since.
Februart 1462 A plot to kill the king
A Lancastrian plot to kill King Edward IV was uncovered early in the year. Edward was planning to go north to deal with the Scots and the plotters planned to follow him north and kill him. One of the leaders was the 12th Earl of Oxford, John de Vere. Both the Earl and his eldest son where executed for treason.
April 1462 Queen Margaret sails to France
In an attempt to raise support for the Lancastrian cause, Queen Margaret sailed from Scotland to Brittany. She hoped she could get support from the French King, Louis XI.
June 28, 1462 Queen Margaret and Louis XI
Queen Margaret of England and Louis XI of France signed a treaty. Margaret promised that Calais would be returned to the French if he helped her return her husband King Henry VI of England to the throne.
October 25, 1462 Queen Margaret invades
Queen Margaret landed near Bamburgh Castle on the Northumbrian coast with a small army. The main castles in the area, Alnwick, Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh surrendered to the Queen.
November 13, 1462 Queen Margaret retreats to Scotland
Edward acted quickly to Queen Margaret's arrival in the north. He raised a large army that marched towards Northumbria. Queen Margaret did not have the resources and local support required to fight Edward and so she decided to seek refuge in Scotland. A garrison of soldiers were left at the three Northumbrian castles.
December 1462 Yorkists take back control of Northumbrian castles
The Earl of Warwick was put in charge of capturing the castles from the Lancastrian garrisons. Edward had to stay at Durham to recover from a bout of the measles. The castles were not attacked but cut off from supplies to starve the soldiers out. Just before the new year the Lancastrian soldiers surrendered and the Yorkists took control of Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh Castles. Warwick used the castle at Warkworth as his base while he monitored the seiges at the other castles. The seige of Alnwick Castle continued into January.
1463
January 6, 1463 Alnwick Castle surrenders to the Yorkists
The Lancastrians inside Alnwick Castle were short of supplies so an army from Scotland under the control of George Douglas, the 4th Earl of Angus marched down to assist. When the Scottish army arrived at the castle, the Yorkists who were beseiging the castle withdrew allowing many of those inside to escape. Douglas did not attack the Yorkists but turned with the rescued men back to Scotland. The Yorkists returned to the castle and those Lancastrians that had not been able to escape surrendered.
March 1463 Northumbrian castles fall to Lancastrians
Sir Ralph Percy, the constable in charge of Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh castles, defected and allowed the Lancastrians to take control. Alnwick Castle fell to the Lancastrians shortly afterwards.
May 1463 Alnwick Castle in Lancastrian hands
Alnwick Castle was captured by the Lancastrians.
July 1463 Queen Margaret returns to France
Warwick took an army north to deal with the new threat from Queen Margaret. The Lancastrians had laid seige to Norham Castle on the Scottish border. Under the control of the Earl of Warwick, the Yorkists again proved too powerful for the Lancastrians and with her invasion plans in ruin Margaret decided to return to France. She took Prince Edward with her.
July 1463 Siege of Norham Castle
Queen Margaret and King Henry VI with Scottish support besieged the castle at Norham. King Edward failed to react to the problem and it was left to the Earls of Warwick and Northumberland to come to the castle's rescue. King Henry, Margaret and the Scots fled.
October 1463 Treaty with France
King Edward IV agreed a peace treaty with France in which both sides promising not to assist each others enemies. This was a disaster for the Lancastrians who had hoped that they could get French assistance against the English king.
December 1463 Duke of Somerset rebels
Henry Beaufort, Duke of Somerset and Lancastrian supporters rebelled against Edward and used Bamburgh Castle as a base.
December 1463 English Truce with Scotland
Edward IV agreed a truce with Scotland who had lost interest in fighting for the Lancastrians and Queen Margaret. The truce was signed at York and Edward spent Christmas in the city.
1464
April 25, 1464 Battle of Hedgeley Moor
The Battle of Hedgeley Moor took place a few miles from Alnwick. Lord Montague was attempting to meet Scottish envoys and escort then back to York for peace talks. The Lancastrians wanted to put an end to these plans and attacked Montague's army. Lancastrians involved in the battle were Somerset, Roos, Hungerford, , Sir Ralph Percy, Sir Richard Tunstall and Sir Thomas Finderne. Percy was killed in the battle. The Yorkist army was too strong for the Lancastrians and won the day.
May 1464 Edward secretly marries
King Edward IV married Elizabeth Woodville (Wydville) secretly during a hunting trip. The hunting trip that may have been arranged as a cover. Edward is supposed to have had a reputation as a lady's man and had many lovers. To Edward, Elizabeth could have been just another lover, but Elizabeth may have wanted more and persuaded Edward to marry her. The marriage took place in secret and was kept quiet until the spring of 1465. One problem with the marriage was that Elizabeth was the widow of Henry V's brother John, a Lancastrian and her family were Lancastrian supporters. The other problem was that Warwick had contacted the French king Louis XI and had been trying to arrange a marriage for Edward to a French princess. Edward's act upset Warwick's plans.
May 1464 Battle of Hexham
The Nevilles defeated the last of the Lancastrian forces near Hexham and executed the rebels including Henry Beaufort the Duke of Somerset. In recognition of their contribution to the security of his reign Edward IV gave John Neville, Lord Montagu, the title of Earl of Northumberland and George Neville became the Archbishop of York.
June 1464 Herbert becomes Constable of Harlech
William Herbert was given the title of Constable of Harlech Castle by Edward IV and told to capture the castle from the Lancastrians. But the castle was strongly fortified and a lengthy seige began.
June 23, 1464 Alnwick Castle Surrenders to Warwick
After the Lancastrians were defeated at the Battle of Hexham their power in Northumberland was at an end. The Earl of Warwick accepted the surrender of Alnwick Castle on June the 23rd. Dunstanburgh Castle surrendered shortly afterwards. The seige at Bamburgh Castle was brought to an end with the use of cannons, the first castle to fall in such a way.
September 14 Council at Reading
At the Great Council at Reading Abbey King Edward IV announced his marriage and Elizabeth Woodville was recognized as Queen.
1465
May 26, 1465 Elizabeth crowned
Elizabeth Woodville was finally crowned Queen at Westminster Abbey.
Summer Henry VI captured
Henry had been helped by Lancastrian supporters in the north but was finally captured at Waddington Hall. He was taken to London and put in the Tower.
1468
Jul Jasper Tudor's invasion
King Louis XI of France provided Jasper Tudor, the Earl of Pembroke, with three ships and fifty soldiers to invade Wales. The small invasion force planned to gain support against Edward IV and help the Lancastrian garrison trapped at Harlech Castle. The castle was surrounded by the English so Pembroke attacked and occupied Denbigh gaining many supporters. Lord Herbert was dispatched to deal with the threat and defeated Pembroke who managed to escape.
Qtr 4 Warwick plots against the King
Warwick was unhappy with the marriage of Edward and Elizabeth Woodville and he began to plan how overthrow the king. Warwick's plans centred around Edward's brother George, the Duke of Clarence. If George was to marry Warwick's daughter Isabel and become king, Warwick would be back in a position of power.
1469
Qtr 1 Rebellion of Robin of Redesdale
A rebellion began early in the year started by a mysterious person calling himself Robin of Redesdale. The motivation for the uprising against the king was his marriage to Elizabeth Woodville and the influence the Woodvilles were having. The rebels were supported by the Earl of Warwick.
June, 1469 Edward advances against rebels
Edward and the Duke of Gloucester took a small army in search of the rebels in the North.
Jul Clarence marries Isabel Neville
Warwick and the Duke of Clarence travelled to France where Clarence was married to Warwick's fifteen year old daughter Isabel. The ceremony was conducted by Warwick's brother George Neville the Archbishop of York.
July 18, 1469 Warwick returns from France
Richard Neville, the Earl of Warwick returned from France to England with an army, passing through Canterbury and London. His plan was to take the army north and join up with the Rebels led by Robin of Redesdale.
July 26, 1469 Battle of Edgecote
Edward's army was insufficient to deal with the rebels alone and he had moved them to Nottingham to wait for a larger army to join them led by Sir William Herbert, the Earl of Pembroke. Pembroke's army was attacked and defeated by a combined rebel army led by Robin of Redesdale and the Earl of Warwick who had returned from France. The battle took place at Edgecote near Banbury. Sir William Herbert and his brother Richard were captured and executed.
Jul 29 Edward is captured
After the defeat of William Herbert at Edgecote, Edward was left without a strong enough army to deal with the Earl of Warwick. Either Edward's army deserted him, or he dispersed his army on purpose, the outcome was the same. Edward was captured.
Aug Woodville family members executed
While Edward was imprisoned, Warwick captured the Queen's father (Earl Rivers) and one of her brothers and had them executed at Warwick Castle.
Sep Riots and rebellions
With the king in custody there began a series of riots around the country protesting against the Earl of Warwick. Warwick did not have the backing of Parliament and in the end had little choice but to let Edward go free and return to rule the country.
1470
March 12, 1470 Lincolnshire rebellion
A rebellion had begun in Lincolnshire early in the year and had been mostly been dealt with by Edward, but Sir Robert (Welles ?) had escaped capture and was still on the run. Edward finally caught up with Sir Robert near Stamford in Lincolnshire. In the battle known as Empingham (or Lose-Coat), Sir Robert was captured and confessed that the rebellion had been master-minded by the Earl of Warwick and the Duke of Clarence.
May 1470 Warwick and Clarence escape to France
After their treachery had been uncovered, the Earl of Warwick and Duke of Clarence fled to France. Warwick's plan was to get help from the French King. They took a ship with their immediate relatives and followers from either Exeter or Dartmouth. Isabella, Warwick's daughter, gave birth on the ship to a son, but he died shortly afterwards.
July 22, 1470 Warwick and the Lancastrians
Louis XI, the French King devised a plan to remove Edward IV from the English throne. Louis persuaded the Yorkist Earl of Warwick and Margaret of Anjou the exiled wife of Henry VI, a Lancastrian, to combine forces and attempt to over through Edward. Warwick and Margaret met on 22 July at Anger Cathedral to put their differences aside and to agree on a course of action.
July 25, 1470 Betrothal of Prince Edward and Anne Neville
The betrothal of Prince Edward and Anne Neville formed part of the agreement between Queen Margaret and the Kingmaker to put King Henry VI back on the English throne. The act taking place at the Cathedral of Angers,
July 31, 1470 The plan to restore Henry VI
The Earl of Warwick promised to restore Henry VI to the English throne, and he betrothed his youngest daughter Anne to Margaret's son Edward, the Prince of Wales.
September 9, 1470 Warwick sails from France
With an army and over fifty ships provided by King Louis, the Earl of Warwick set sail from France to England.
September 13, 1470 Warwick lands in England
The Earl of Warwick landed at Dartmouth in Devon accompanied by the Lancastrian Earl of Oxford and Jasper Tudor, the half-brother of Henry VI. Edward was in the north at the time of Warwick's return and was turned upon by John Neville, Warwick's brother. Although John Neville had accepted Edward as King, Edward had removed John's title of Earl of Northumberland earlier in the year and given it to the Percys. John Neville advanced on Edward's position with a force much larger.
October 2, 1470 Edward flees to Burgundy
Warwick did not need to fight the King. Edward was outnumbered and was almost captured by John Neville at Doncaster. Along with his brother Richard and a small party of followers, Edward travelled to Lynn in Norfolk where he sailed to Burgundy and refuge.
October 6, 1470 Henry restored as King
The Earl of Warwick and Clarence entered London. King Henry VI was released from the Tower of London. Henry was crowned King of England for the second time.
Qtr 4 Edward (V) is born
King Edward IV's wife Elizabeth gave birth to her first son. Elizabeth had taken refuge at Westminster Abbey after King Henry VI had been restored to the throne by the Earl of Warwick and King Edward had fled to Burgundy. The baby was named Edward and would be heir to the English throne.
December 13, 1470 Marriage of Edward of Lancaster and Anne Neville
The marriage between Edward of Lancaster, the son of Henry VI and Margaret of Anjou, to Anne Neville, the daughter of Richard Neville the Kingmaker was a marriage to cement the agreement that Richard and Margaret would support each other and try to get Henry VI back on the English throne. The marriage took place in France at the Chateau d'Amboise where Margaret and Edward were exiled.
1471
March 14, 1471 Edward returns to England
With a small combined force of English and Burgundians, Edward landed on the Yorkshire coast. His fleet had been hit and scattered by a storm off the coast of Norfolk. Luckily for Edward he wasn't attacked even though Lord Montagu, the Earl of Northumberland, was close by. As he marched south, Edward gained supporters and his army grew.
April 4, 1471 Clarence rejoins his brothers
George, Duke of Clarence deserted the Earl of Warwick and joined his brothers Edward and Richard. Importantly for the Yorkist cause, he brought with him a sizable army.
April 11, 1471 London opens its gates to Edward and the Yorkists
The Earl of Warwick was in Coventry and apparently unwilling to confront Edward, so Edward and Richard marched south to London. London was under the control of Warwick's brother, George Neville the Archbishop of York, but the Londoners were Yorkists and they welcomed the return of their true king. Once inside the city Edward had the Archbishop arrested and along with King Henry VI put in the Tower of London.
April 14, 1471 The Battle of Barnet
The Earl of Warwick had left Coventry to confront Edward. The armies met at Barnet just north of London in thick fog. The two battle lines overlapped and Warwick's Lancastrian men commanded by the Earl of Oxford were able to get around the Yorkists commanded by Lord Hastings. Hastings' men fled back to London with Oxford's men in hot pursuit. On the other side of the battle the Yorkists, led by Richard, were outflanking the Lancastrians and took the advantage pushing their enemy back. When Oxford's men returned to the battle they were mistakenly fired upon by their fellow Lancastrians and fled. By early evening Lord Montagu and the Earl of Warwick were dead. The Lancastrians were defeated.
May 1471 London attacked by rebels
A group of men from Kent attacked London but left the city before the victorious Edward returned after the battle of Tewkesbury.
May 4, 1472 The Battle of Tewkesbury
The Yorkists led by King Edward IV and his brother Richard Duke of Gloucester met the Lancastrians at Tewkesbury. Richard was able to outflank the Lancastrians led by Edmund Beaufort, the self-proclaimed Duke of Somerset. Once Somerset's men had been dealt with, Richard attacked the rear of the Lancastrian line which broke apart and fled. Many of the Lancastrian leaders were caught and killed including Edward the Prince of Wales. Margaret of Anjou, the wife of King Henry VI, was also captured.
May 21, 1472 The murder of Henry VI
Edward, the Earl of March arrived back in London and that night King Henry VI was murdered at the Tower of London.
1473
December 1473 Birth of Edward, Prince of Wales
Edward, the son of Richard III and Anne Neville was born at Middleham Castle.
1483
Apr 30, 1483 Richard captures the King
Richard, assisted by the Duke of Buckingham rode to Stony Stratford where they met with the King under the pretence of offering their condolences for the death of his father. Instead, they captured King Edward and took him directly to London and safe keeping in the Tower. Anthony Woodville, Earl Rivers was arrested and imprisoned at Sherriff Hutton Castle, near York.
Jun 13 Hastings executed
Lord Hastings had supported Richard against the Woodvilles and had hoped to gain some reward for his loyalty, but the Duke of Buckingham seemed more likely to be rewarded at his expense. Hastings' loyalties swayed towards the Woodvilles and when Richard found out, Hastings was arrested and executed.
1485
August 7, 1485 Henry Tudor arrives in England
Henry Tudor landed at Milford Haven in Wales avoiding the south coast which was more heavily defended and made his way north. He was given money by Charles VIII of France to pay for soldiers and ships for the invasion.
Aug 15 Henry Tudor at Shrewsbury
By August 15th, Henry Tudor had reached the town of Shrewsbury. He had gained the support of some Welsh as he marched north.
Aug 22 Battle of Bosworth
King Richard III was killed at the Battle of Bosworth and Henry Tudor was proclaimed King of England.
Oct 30 Henry Tudor is crowned.
Henry Tudor is crowned as Henry VII at Westminster Abbey.
1487
May 24 Lambert Simnel crowned in Dublin
Lambert Simnel arrived in Ireland claiming to be Edward Earl of Lincoln and true heir to the English throne. He was crowned by the Irish at Dublin as Edward VI.
Jun 16 Battle of Stoke
Henry VII fought the Earl of Lincoln and Lambert Simnel at the Battle of Stoke. The English throne was at stake. Simnel was captured and Lincoln was killed. This battle ended the Wars of the Roses.
FYI Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen 1SG Jason Hastings LTC Greg Henning PO1 William "Chip" Nagel LTC (Join to see)
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