What motivated the Yorkists in 1460? (1459-60)

Question 1

What were the 3 main motivations for the Yorkists in 1460?

Answer 1

Restoration;
Ambition for the Throne;
Dominance of Government

Question 2

Restoration

Answer 2

• Coppini: 25th June 1460 Warwick appeals to injustices and swears loyalty to Henry in front of Coppini,
  4th July Coppini writes to Henry VI in favour of Yorkists claiming restoration
• York’s bloodline: saw attainder as unfair since York was of royal blood,
  felt they deserved at least restoration
• Shown by first actions: annulled Parliament of Devils first in Oct 1460,
  Salisbury declared as no longer a traitor

CA: Act of Accord points to throne ambition

Question 3

Ambition for the Throne

Answer 3

• Past Protectorates: York was kicked out in Feb 1456 so knew that the only permanent strength was the throne
• Lack of Support: Warwick and Salisbury angry at claim to throne, so maybe York revealed his true intentions? Made retreat very awkward
• Act of Accord: established Mortimer line as strongest and removed Edward of Wales from inheritance

Question 4

Dominance of Government

Answer 4

• Complete reform: household cleared of Lancs and Henry moved to Canterbury on 1st Aug as a near-hostage,
  25th July, George Neville appointed as Chancellor,
  28th July, Viscount Bourchier appointed as Treasurer,
  30th July, Salisbury appointed as Chamberlain,
  consolidated power in lower ranks of government e.g. Bishop Lowe,
  created council including Nevilles, Bourchiers and weak Lancs like Beauchamps and Dudleys