How Did The Role Of Plantagenet Play In The War Of The Roses

The English throne has been the birthplace of many battles and wars. The fight for the crown during the 15th century is known as the Wars of the Roses, which were between the houses of Lancaster and York. The fight for the crown consisted of blood, treachery, and loss. The Wars of the Roses played a crucial role in the transition of eras in England from medieval to early modern times and to technology. The Wars of the Roses began in 1455 when 2 families considered themselves heir to the throne. Both of the families can trace their ancestry to Edward III of the House of Plantagenet. In the House of York all of the females descended from Edward III. In the House of Lancaster they were descended from John of Gaunt, Edward III’s son. The Lancasters had control of the throne since 1399 (Andrews). On May 22, 1455 the First Battle at St. Albans was fought, and this marked the beginning of the Wars of the Roses (Kling). Although there was fighting involved, the Wars of the Roses

Plantagenet also played a role in the Hundred Years War, if this war didn’t happen the Wars of the Roses might not have happened either. The Hundred Years War drained supplies and unemployed thousands, during this time Henry VI fell ill and made Plantagenet protector. But when he recovered Plantagenet was very reluctant to give up authority and this led to the very first battle of the War of the Roses at St. Albans (Andrews). Edmund Beaufort, the Duke of Somerset, replaced the Duke of York as Lieutenant of France. He was a cousin of King Henry VI and used this to his advantage. Even though he was one of the king’s best men, he was hated by his people. He was responsible for the loss of Rouen, which led to the fall of Normandy. He kept power until 1451 when he was held accountable for the loss of Bordeaux and Gascony, the Duke of York was quick to blame him and forcefully arrested him