Since the time of William the Conqueror, there has been a succession of monarchs who have claimed to rule over England.
One such dynasty is The House of York, which argued that they are the rightful heirs to the English throne. This article will explore their history, and why they believe they have a legitimate claim to power. We will also take a look at their place in English history, and how they have shaped the country we know today.
The House of York traces its descent from Edward III, one of the most famous and successful kings of England. Edward was born in 1312, and ruled over England from 1327 until he died in 1377. He was a great military leader and oversaw a period of great prosperity and expansion for the country.
One of Edward’s most important accomplishments was the creation of the Order of the Garter, which is still the highest order of chivalry in England today.
The Order was founded in 1348, and is made up of the bravest and most accomplished knights in the kingdom. It is still awarded to this day to men and women who have shown exceptional service to their country.
The House of York is descended from Edward III’s son, Edmund.
The Wars of the Roses were a series of battles fought for the throne of England. The conflict began in 1455, and lasted until 1485.
There were two main factions involved in the Wars of the Roses: the House of Lancaster, and the House of York.
The House of Lancaster was descended from John of Gaunt, who was the son of Edward III. The House of York was descended from Edward III’s son, Edmund Langley.
The wars were fought between these two houses for over 30 years, and resulted in the death of many important figures on both sides.
Edward IV
Edward IV was born in 1442, and came to the throne in 1461. He reigned for 22 years, and was a great military leader and administrator. Edward was the eldest surviving son of Richard, 3rd duke of York. His father was descended from two sons of the 14th-century king Edward III.
Edward V
Edward V was the son of Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville. He was born in 1470, and was just 12 years old when he came to the throne after his father’s death.
Unfortunately, Edward V only reigned for two months before he was overthrown by his uncle Richard III. There are many theories as to why Richard III decided to kill his nephew, but he likely saw Edward V as a threat to his power.
After his death, Edward V was declared illegitimate and all of his rights were taken away. He is often referred to as “the Princes in the Tower”, as it is believed that he was held captive in the Tower of London before he was killed.
Richard III
Richard III was born in 1452, and was the youngest brother of Edward IV. He came to the throne in 1483, after his brother’s death.
Richard III is best known for his involvement in the Wars of the Roses, and for his death at the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485. He was killed by Henry Tudor, who would go on to become Henry VII and establish the Tudor dynasty.
Many people see Richard III as a villain, due to his role in the deaths of Edward V and his younger brother. However, many defend him, arguing that he was simply a victim of circumstance.
Whatever your opinion of Richard III may be, it is undeniable that he played a significant role in English history.
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Link will appear as Hanson, Marilee. "House of York" https://englishhistory.net/middle-ages/house-of-york/, January 27, 2022