Motivations for Richard's actions Flashcards
1
Q
Richard Duke of York
A
- York with the greatest magnate of the era
- Cade’s rebels described him as a high and Mighty Prince Who they believed would restore good government
- In 1450 many saw him as the saviour of the common Weal
- York had a strong claim to the throne through Edward III
- However, York was always careful not to present himself as a Dynastic rival to Henry VI
- York showed his full allegiance to Henry VI
2
Q
Loss of Normandy (S+Y)
A
- York was previously running France and doing a good job (1440-45) and was only replaced due to the jealousy of Somerset (1447)
- York was extremely angered when he heard Somerset had instantly lost all the French land that York fought so hard to keep
- Somerset himself surrendered, Rouen, the capital of Normandy on 29th October 1449
- York is angered even further as Somerset returns to England without any punishment and remains a favourite of Henry VI
- York believes if he remains Lieutenant of France the French lands would still be in the hands of the English
- This is where the political rivalry between York and Somerset begin
3
Q
1451 York’s return from Ireland
A
- In 1451 York returned from Ireland
- His aim was to remove Somerset and other members of the Royal Household and cancel all grants to Royal favourites
- Through an Act of Resumption
- York was supported by the House of Commons and although he did achieve this, his political victory was short-lived
- Henry chose to ignore the demands of York
- As a result in 1452 York resorted to force
- DARTFORD COUP = 1452
4
Q
Failed Coup d’etat
A
- However, York’s attempted Coup d’etat was a complete failure as he only had the support of the Earl of Devon
- DARTFORD COUP = 1452
- He was defeated by the Royal Army and retired to Ludlow Castle
- He remained low until 27 March 1454 when he was appointed Protector of England
5
Q
Baronial Factions
A
- Richard relied on the Earl of Salisbury and Shrewsbury for advice
- Salisbury became Chancellor of England in April 1454
- During Yorks Protectorate, he tried to restore order in the North between the Neville’s and Percy’s but was seen to be taking sides with the Neville’s
6
Q
York’s First Protectorate
A
27th March 1454 - Dec 1454
7
Q
York’s Secound Protectorate
A
Nov 1455 - Feb 1456