Henry VII - Character and Aims

Question 1

When and how did Henry VII ascend to power?

Answer 1

Henry came to the throne after usurping Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth on August 22nd 1485.

Question 2

What were Henry VII’s aims for his reign?
[Five]

Answer 2

• Henry wanted to secure his position on the throne
• Gain international recognition
• Maintain prestige
• Promote prosperity, economy and relations with international powers
• Establish and consolidate his dynasty

Question 3

What was the War of the Roses and what was its effect on England?

Answer 3

The War of the Roses (1455 - 1487) was a series of dynastic civil wars between the houses of York and Lancaster for the English throne.
It left the general population feeling tired of the fighting and yearning for peace.
It had created powerful, out of control nobility.

Question 4

How did the War of the Roses threaten Henry’s position?

Answer 4

1. The Yorkists were unhappy with a lancastrian king.
2. Certain counties had Yorkist sympathies
3. Ireland had Yorkist Sympathies
4. There were Yorkists that were still alive and had a claim to the Throne (e.g Warwick and John de la Pole)
5. Yorkist monarchs (Margaret of Burgundy) hated Henry and threatened his Foreign Policy.

Question 5

What were Henry’s claims to the throne?

Answer 5

1. Victory in Battle : Came to the throne by the ‘Right of Conquest’ and his usurpation was a sign that God approved his assumption of power.
2. Royal bloodline, inherited royal blood from his mother - Margaret Beaufort who was a descendent of Edward III. This bloodline (John of Gaunt) was named illigitimate which weakned his claim + maternal side.