Avoidance of Conflict With Scotland

Question 1

How was Henry able to avoid war with Scotland up until 1495?

Answer 1

• Scotland was more favourably inclined towards him than Richard III, who had supported border raids.
• Three-year truce in July 1486.
• Assassination of James III left his 15 year old son in charge - he could not lead an army.
• Maintained contacts at the Scottish court and gave shelter to Scottish nobles - nine-year truce.

Question 2

Why did Henry’s support for Brittany increase tensions between England and Scotland?

Answer 2

The Auld-Alliance meant that Scotland supported France.

Question 3

How did Scotland support Warbeck?

Answer 3

• Royal welcome.
• James married Warbeck to his cousin, Lady Catherine Gordon.
• Gave military support for an invasion of England in 1496.

Question 4

Why was the Peace of Ayton successful?

Answer 4

• No peace agreement had been signed between the two countries since 1328.
• Reinforced with the marriage of Margaret to James IV.
• Brought Henry and the Tudors recognition from another European power.
• Avoided full scale war.

Question 5

Why was the Peace of Ayton not successful?

Answer 5

• Did not live up to its name of ‘Treaty of Perpetual Peace’ as the Scots did not abandon the Auld Alliance and Border raids continued.
• James’ naval expansion increased tensions.
• Henry had not secured his northern border, just stabilised it.