Edward IV's death and tensions

Question 1

Edwards son

Answer 1

Eldest son, Prince Edward was 12- too old for a minority council but too young to rule alone
Grew up under supervision of Earl Rivers
Issue about who would surround the King was a contested one

Question 2

King’s compromises on death bed

Answer 2

1. Hastings and Dorset to reconcile differences
2. Gloucester made next in line to throne after Edward, making him protector and controller of royal government, separated council of prince from control of government

Question 3

After death

Answer 3

Gloucester sent letter to Hastings in London stating his claim as protector. Hastings put this forward as he feared the influence of Dorset and Woodvilles

Gloucester was keen to attempt to influence proceedings at court from north

Was decided that Prince Edward was begin his reign immediately, decided there would be a council to advise the King, Gloucester would have a seat but not be in charge

Letters sent to Ludlow summoning Rivers and Edward to London, on arrival Edward would be crowned King