The War of the Roses was a civil war which was fought between dynasties back in 15th century Europe. This war occurred between the house of York and Lancaster. This was not the first of the rivalries between the two houses, but it was the first open fighting between the houses of which both believe their house was the rightful heir to the throne of England. Representing the House of Lancaster was that of King Henry VI while representing the House of York was Richard, the Duke of York.
The fighting between the two houses broke out in 1455, but it was not until 1459 that the fighting became truly violent. It was at this point that King Henry VI was captured and Richard took the title of Richard, Protector of England seeing as though he was persuaded in not taking the throne. As a rebuttal, the House of Lancaster resumed the War of the Roses and killed Richard during a battle in 1460. It was at this time that Richard’s oldest son, Henry would be proclaimed the king after the 1461 Battle of Towton.
There were several attempts to revolt made by the House of Lancaster by turning Henry’s brother against him. After this, Edward IV would be pronounced king seeing as the King Henry had been murdered and Edward, Prince of Wales had died in battle. This led to a period of time which was filled with peace until 1483 when the King unexpectedly died. To prevent Edward’s widow from taking the throne, Richard of Gloucester, his brother would attempt to prevent the succession. While this was occurring, Edward’s son took up the throne but unfortunately he was not considered to be legitimate. Henry Tudor who was a distant cousin of the House of Lancaster took this opportunity to take out Richard and in effect placing himself on the throne.
The house of York, who by this time had already diminished in numbers attempted several small revolts but were unsuccessful. While the official War of the Roses had already ended with the House of Lancaster taking the throne through Henry Tudor, execution of Yorkist supporters continued until 1499 when the last pretender was put to death.
At the time of the war, the term War of the Roses was not the official title, however due to the fact that both houses featured a flower as their insignia, the name would later be applied to the battles and since has become official.
Original Authors: Nick (Globel Team)
Edit Update Authors: M.A.Harris
Updated On: 15/08/2008
