Why did Richard of York claim the throne? (1460)

Question 1

What were the 4 main theories for York’s claim to the throne in October 1460?

Answer 1

Longstanding Ambition;
Lack of Alternatives;
York’s Personal Decision;
Part of Yorkist Plan

Question 2

Longstanding Ambition

Answer 2

• Oldhall allegedly wanted to replace Henry with York in Ipswich Uprising of March 1450
• Shrewsbury Manifesto in February 1452 shows acknowledgment of succession claim
• Allegedly spread illegitimacy rumours about Edward of Wales being of Somerset and Margaret’s affair
• in 1456, James II shows support for York and writes to Charles VII claiming York as the rightful King
• Accused of wanting throne at Parliament of Devils in Dec 1459

CA: repeatedly denied desire for throne and made oaths to Henry (e.g. St. Paul’s Cathedral 1452)

Question 3

Lack of Alternatives

Answer 3

• strongest claim in country and replacing Henry VI seen as only way to enact reform
• needed throne to clear his name of treason from Parliament of Devils and remove attainder

CA: extremely high risk, failure = treason, and has been a successful Protector by force 1455-56, why not again?

Question 4

York’s Personal Decision

Answer 4

• time in Ireland isolated him from fellow Yorkists and maybe he planned it alone
• 10 weeks between Neville return and York’s return: changed his mind? New opportunities?
• arranged his own coronation on 1st Nov 1460 but cancelled due to unpopularity

CA: still very risky due to lack of general noble support (as shown in 1450, 52, 56), and risks alienating strongest allies (Nevilles)

Question 5

Part of Yorkist Plan

Answer 5

• Warwick visited Ireland for 2 months during exile, maybe claim to throne was planned?
• lack of popularity causes Warwick to push for change of plan?
• very bold move, must’ve been very strongly considered

CA: Nevilles, especially Salisbury, were furious with York’s claim and had arguments with him afterward, which Rutland backed York over