'The murder of Henry VI was the main reason why Edward IV was able to re-establish power in 1471' How far do you agree? 20 marks

introduction:

-many factors that lead to Edward re-establishing power

though the murder was important in allowing him to reclaim the throne, it was due to his tactics and skill that he was able to reassert his influence

1: murder of Henry VI:

Strengths:

• deaths of Henry VI and Edward of Westminster meant there was not a clear, credible alternative to take the throne

• this gave Edward opportunities to neutralise the threat of overmighty subjects e.g. Clarence, to extend his royal authority and credibility.

• death of Henry VI led to Jasper and Henry Tudor (legitimate claims) to flee to France, removing any political opponents to Edward

• this success for Edward left no real claimants to the throne, and seemingly ended the WOTR

• was the king, couldn’t take the throne unless he was dead

Weaknesses:

-arguably Henry VI, due to mental position and being locked in the tower was not much of a threat, and it was only his title that proved a difficulty for Edward

2: support from the nobility

• Percy family allowed Edward to march his family through their lands unopposed, allowing to advance to London and increase his military influence

• Gloucester and Hastings were significant in commanding troops and securing victories (excellent commanders in Barnet and Tewkesbury)

• Hastings gained information on which regions he expected support from, improving his chances of success

However:

-could be argued it wasn’t the nobility, but rather the military and political prowess of Edward e.g. hiding in fog to move his troops towards the Lancastrians at Barnet, and using bushes to hide spearmen at Tewkesbury

-also important to consider foreign support from Charles of Burgundy, who supplied troops and a fleet to allow Edward to return to England and build an army

Edward’s tactics and skill:

• At Barnet, positioned troops at night so Warwick couldn’t find them, therefore meaning they overshot

• Attacked in early morning so views were obstructed

• At Tewkesbury Edward engaged Margaret before the arrival of Jasper Tudor

• Used bushes to hide spearmen- these subsequent victories were crucial in reducing the influence of the Lancastrians

• Had the overall support of London, providing him with a safe passage, allowing him to retake the city and gain possession of Henry VI

conclusion:

-Edward’s tactics and skills was the most important reason

-tactics led to the death of Henry VI

-despite the support from the nobility and armies, Edward’s military tactics led them to victory at Tewkesbury