H7 Rise to Power

Question 1

What political instability had England experienced before Henry VII’s reign?

Answer 1

Civil war across the 15th century, War of the Roses began in 1455, 30+ years of conflict, 5 violent changes of monarch.

Question 2

How did the War of the Roses affect English monarchy?

Answer 2

Created instability and divided loyalties, weakened authority of the crown, made Henry VII’s position fragile upon taking the throne.

Question 3

What was the significance of the Battle of Bosworth (1485)?

Answer 3

Richard III killed in battle, Henry Tudor claimed the throne and began Tudor dynasty, end of Plantagenet rule.

Question 4

Who was Henry VII before he became king?

Answer 4

Lived in exile in France during youth, descended from Lancastrians via his mother, Margaret Beaufort.

Question 5

Why was Henry VII’s claim to the throne considered weak?

Answer 5

Came through the female line (Lady Margaret Beaufort), no stronger Lancastrian candidate.

Question 6

Why did Yorkist loyalists oppose Henry VII?

Answer 6

Believed Yorkist claim was stronger, Richard III wasn’t buried properly → discontent, Henry gained power through battle, not birth.

Question 7

What early steps did Henry VII take to consolidate power?

Answer 7

Dated reign to the day before Bosworth → opponents = traitors, publicly rewarded key supporters (e.g. knighthoods).

Question 8

How did Henry deal with rival claimants early in his reign?

Answer 8

Detained Elizabeth of York and Earl of Warwick (potential Yorkist threats), married Elizabeth of York after securing throne.

Question 9

Why was Henry’s coronation held before his first Parliament?

Answer 9

To show that he ruled by hereditary right, not just because of Parliament.

Question 10

What financial and legal powers did Henry secure early in his reign?

Answer 10

Acts of Attainder passed in Parliament → Yorkist lands taken, granted tonnage and poundage for life.