Reasons for Yorkist victory

Question 1

Buckingham

Answer 1

The Duke of Buckingham (as the Constable of England) had decided to wait for the Yorkists in St Albans’ walls, meaning the king and his banner were not in open view. This may have put off some rebels from fighting.

Buckingham’s hopes that negotiations could give the Royalists more time to construct defences were scuppered by the decision of Warwick to attack quickly.

Question 2

environment

Answer 2

The royal forces were scattered through the town rather that in a tightly controlled or mutually supported unit.

The Royalists were short of archers. The Yorkist archers found the Royalists to be easy targets as they were pinned inside the city walls.

Question 3

forces

Answer 3

The king’s forces were outnumbered, with less than 2,000 troops compared to the Yorkist 3,000+.