What was the reaction to the birth of Henry VI's heir?

When was Edward, Prince of Wales born?

13 October 1453

What problem did his birth solve?

it solved the question of the succession

What problem did his birth not solve?

His birth didn't solve the pressing issue of who should lead the government in the meantime

What was Henry VI's state when his son was born?

he was in a serious state of mental illness and was in no condition to rule

What was York's position like when Edward prince of Wales was born?

He was still out of favour following his attempted coup at Dartford but he couldn't be ignored for much longer and must surely be involved in any regency council that was to be formed

What was Somerset's position like when Prince Edward was born?

He was showing signs of concern for his position as he saw York as a threat

Who surprisingly emerged as a player in the world of politics?

Margaret of Anjou

What was the impact of Prince Edward's birth on York's position?

As a result was York determined to acquire?

- He was no longer heir presumptive

- the leading position on any regency council that should be needed given the King's incapacity

Who did Margaret of Anjou show favour to?

How did she show her favour towards him?

- Somerset

- she had him heavily involved in Prince Edward's christening

When was Somerset arrested and sent to the Tower (possibly for his own protection)?

23rd November 1453

Was he ever brought to trial ?

What was this suggestive of?

- no

- that there was little legal validity of the claims made against him by Norfolk

Margaret of Anjou became increasingly fearful of her son's inheritance and was determined that what was not to happen?

that York should not be appointed as regent

What did Margaret of Anjou attempt to do instead?

she attempted to claim the regency for herself

Why was there little support for this?

due to the combination of her sex, nationality and England's limited experience of female leadership

On what day was York named as Protector and Defender of England? (day, month, year)

27th March 1454

Not long after this, the great offices of state were filled with men nominated by York. Give an example of this.

The Earl of Salisbury, York's brother-in-law became chancellor