Opposition from nobility and gentry:

Why was this the key reason for brevity of RIII’s reign?

• Unreliable supporters.

• Neutrals did not trust him.

Henry Stafford’s - Duke of Buckingham’s October 1483 rebellion:

• Only four months after helping him become king - probably had ambitions for the crown.

• Rebellion lasted a month in south-England before being crushed.

• Rebelled in support of Henry Tudor who almost landed on the south-west coast but turned back.

What did Parliament do following the rebellion?

• Issued over 100 attainers.

• Some were pardoned - BUT had 2/3rds of their land confiscated.

• Those in the south forced to hand over their estates to RIII’s supporters from the north - resulted in much resentment.

• E.g. Richard Radcliffe given land in Devon, Dorset and Somerset.

Bouchier and Norrys rebellion:

• 2 of RIII’s households.

• After rebellion, RIII likely made decision to kill his nephews - learned this from EIV’s likely execution of HVI and Prince Edward - dynastic threats best removed for good.

Why didnt the deaths of the two nephews make RIII secure?

• Pushed RIII’s opponents into supporting Henry Tudor - only other legitimate rival.

From what date did RIII face continuous uprisings?

• July 1484.

• All in support of Henry Tudor.

• E.g. Risings in Essex late 1484.