How far were Richard of York's ambitions responsible for the outbreak of war?

Authors Avatar by jess_street (student)

It is known that the ambitions of Richard of York were in someway responsible for the outbreak of conflict in England in 1455, but it is very difficult to establish how much of an impact he had. There are many factors that side for and against as to the influence York had!

Richard of York seemed to be more suited for king than Henry VI was. He posed a major threat to the crown and this became increasing noticeable to those around him. York was one of the most influential men in Henry VI reign. He was able to carefully manage money, was prepared and ready for battle, known as capable politician and had healthy sons. All of this favoured the fact that Richard could have easily over thrown Henry! It also showed up how weak and pathetic Henry was. Whilst the king was not active in anything his duties entailed him to do, Richard was a prime example of how a king should run his country.

On some occasions when Henry was not capable of serving, Richard took over his position (1436-7 & 1440-5). He had a good amount of success as the king’s military commander in France. With the creeping suspicion from Margaret of Anjou that York wanted the throne and the idea that he was too arrogant and demanding for the job, Richard was removed and replaced by Somerset! This began a demanding feud with Somerset suspecting York of having ‘kingly ambitions’. Somerset was not as successful in battle as York was and he protested that Somerset was ill equipped. However, his pleas did not work and York was definitely aggravated by having his already good leadership pulled from beneath him.

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As well as this Richard of York was definitely an over mighty subject. York was a blood relation to the royal family, a descendant of Kind Edward III and the owner of a vast estate that stretched across England! He was the heir apparent, which gave him advantage and means to push to try and become king (or try to get his heir onto the throne next). Overall he seemed to be more suited for the role as king than Henry VI was. Furthermore Henry also owed him a £38,000 and became increasingly angry with this. To try and ...

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