How did York become heir to the throne? Flashcards
Overview
Victory at Northampton allowed York to return 8th Sept 1460
By time of his return Yorkists were already in key positions eg John Neville was Henry’s household chamberlain
York entered London with his wife in a full ceremony with the banner of England and sword carried before him-> only King held banner intention to take throne
Yorkists by no means were accepted around the country, northern and souther western counties did not accept new government
Why did York act like this?
- Margaret was his one remaining enemy
- York could replace Edward as heir, would neuter Margaret’s power
- York presented his case showing he had a superior dynastic claim through the female line
Act of Accord 25th October 1460
York’s proposal to make himself King was rejected by parliament, they could not bring themselves to depose the king
Hesitancy was significant given Yorkist support in Parliament
Compromise made known as Act of Accord
Points of Act of Accord
- Henry VI was to remain on the throne
- York was to govern as Protector of England
- York and his sons were named heirs in place of Prince Edward
Legally stripped Prince Edward of titles and lands and passed them to York, he was given Duchy of Cornwall and revenue from Lancastrians estate
Aftermath Positives
York’s actions had increased support for him from the Nevilles, sensed potential riches to be gained from being allied to heir of throne
Aftermath negatives
York’s actions forced wavering support into the arms of Margaret, Margaret galvanised into action
Did not lay upheaval across country to rest, in North government held no authority at all
Margaret got support from Northumberland, Exeter, and James II of Scotland
Northumberland raised an army to support her in the North they did by Dec 1460
Fact all these movements were carried out in depths of winter show the extent of Lancastrian support
Scale of movement unheard of in such conditions
