9. The first stirrings of revolt and the death of Richard in 1400 Flashcards
When and where was Henry crowned?
13 October Westminster Abbey
How did Henry secure the succession?
He ensured that his eldest son, also Henry, was invested as the Prince of Wales
Why was this guarantee of an heir an important method of strengthening his claim?
provided the realm with newfound stability
In order to further strengthen his claim, he broke away from some of Richard’s unpopular policies by doing what?
revoking the decisions taken by the 1397-98 parliament and restoring those of 1386.
What did Henry promise to parliament?
to live of his own’ and only request
taxation in times of war.
Why was Richard’s promise to parliament at the time politically very useful and in the short term increased political support for the
new king.
This financial undertaking was a clear reference to Richard’s frequent and
very unpopular requests for taxation and a recognition of parliament’s frequent criticism of royal
expenditure.
Recognising that a lack of mercy had been one of the key criticisms of Richard, what did Henry do?
sought conciliation with Richard Il’s erstwhile supporters, showing them clemency provided they showed
a willingness to support the new regime.
What did Henry’s actions towards Richard’s supporters do?
it ensured greater administrative
and political stability at a time of turmoil and prevented a widespread backlash against the usurper
early in his reign.
When was the ‘Epiphany Rising’
1400
What was the ‘Epiphany Rising’
a number of diehard Ricardians, notably the earls of Huntingdon, Kent and Salisbury, and Sir Thomas Despenser, planned a conspiracy to murder Henry and his sons during the traditional Christmas revelry at Windsor.
Why did the ‘Epiphany Rising’ fail?
This was in part because Henry was forewarned and so had time to escape with his family to London. More significantly, however, the plan did not gain popular support; indeed, a number of the rebels were killed by local people before they could be found and executed.
When did Richard conveniently die
February 1400, after Epiphany Rising, which was in January
Why was the body brought to London with the face displayed
publicising his death to prevent pretenders causing unrest
Why did Henry face considerable difficulties at the start of his reign?
Legally dubious nature of his claim
Why did Henry keep the throne?
Richard Il had been extremely unpopular and Henry was politically militarily astute enough to capitalise on this advantage and not to alienate too many people. He was also greatly
assisted in this as his only real rival claimant was an eight-year-old boy.
