Lovell's rebellion, 1486

Question 1

Why was it launched

Answer 1

It is notable that the first conspiracy Henry VIl faced in 1486 did not involve any of these alternative
claimants. It was led by Francis, Viscount Lovell, who had been a close associate and supporter of
Richard Ill. Given his close relationship with Richard, and the fact he had fought against Henry at
Bosworth, Lovell was attainted for treason in Henry’s first parliament and fled with another opponent
of the Tudor regime, Humphrey Stafford of Grafton (in Worcestershire).

Question 2

What was the plan

Answer 2

During March and April
1486, these men conspired to raise a rebellion against Henry, with Stafford inspiring insurrection in
the West Midlands and Lovell in Yorkshire.

Question 3

Why did the plan fail?

Answer 3

There proved little appetite for further fighting in these
areas, however, and crucially the major northern landholders failed to rally to Lovell and Stafford’s
cause. Consequently, when Henry arrived in York on 20 April, he discovered that the rebels had fled
Lovell headed to safety in Burgundy, where Margaret, the dowager duchess of Burgundy, sought to
aid those causing trouble for the new Tudor regime.