Motivations for Richard's actions

Question 1

Richard Duke of York

Answer 1

• 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

Question 2

Loss of Normandy (S+Y)

Answer 2

• 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

Question 3

1451 York’s return from Ireland

Answer 3

• 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

Question 4

Failed Coup d’etat

Answer 4

• 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

Question 5

Baronial Factions

Answer 5

• 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

Question 6

York’s First Protectorate

Answer 6

27th March 1454 - Dec 1454

Question 7

York’s Secound Protectorate

Answer 7

Nov 1455 - Feb 1456