The strengths and weaknesses of the Yorkists by 1461

Question 1

Yorkists Victory

Answer 1

Yorkists were victors by 1461

After Towton it was clear Edward was to remain firmly on the throne

Question 2

Switching Alliances

Answer 2

Many Lancastrians simply switched their alliances to Edward

Lord Rivers was the most significant individual that defected to the Yorkist Side and strengthened the Yorkist position

Question 3

Military Leaders at Towton

Answer 3

One of the greatest strengths of the Yorkists was the Dynamism of Edward and his great abilities as a military leader

At Mortimer’s Cross, he used the Celestia omen to boost the morale of his soldiers + concealed a squadron of mounted archers

The Yorkists had great military leaders such as Lord Faucounberg + W
The Lancastrian had few effective military commanders

Question 4

The reputation of Yorkist Army

Answer 4

Yorkists forces played on traditions of chivalry in a way that only strengthened their positions

As opposed to Lancastrian armies who had a bad reputation for pillaging and plundering

Question 5

Popularity of Yorkists

Answer 5

The greatest strength of the Yorkists was their success in propaganda

The Yorkists had the majority of popular support

In particular, they were supported by London and Kent which was strategically important for the invasion of July 1460

Question 6

Finances

Answer 6

The Yorkists had finances coming in from London merchants which totalled at least £11,000

One of the grievances against Henry’s government was their terrible financial position and their inability to pay creditors

Question 7

Royal Military resources

Answer 7

Before 1460 the Yorkists had command of royal Military resources such as the Lieutenant of Ireland and the Garrison of Calais

Calais was a huge strength to the Yorkists as it provided men and the largest Arsenal of Weapons available to the English crown

In the north, the Nevilles commanded the west march to defend the border against Scotland which allowed them to pay their men with royal wages

Question 8

Strengths of the Lancastrians by 1461

Answer 8

Margaret and her son Edwards are still at large
The Queen had the support of foreign powers such as France and Scotland

While she was immediately powerless in 1461 she still had the potential to rebuild her forces and return

There was still a strong enough core Lancastrian party that was not going to accept Edward as their King