Why Bolingbrooke was able to seize power 1399

Bolingbroke’s aim upon invasion

When Bolingbroke first invaded, he said he only wanted to get back his Lancastrian lands. Richard’s decision to disinherit him was widely criticised in England and abroad, so Bolingbroke could be confident he would get a recent amount of support for his actions.

The risk of leaving Richard on the throne

He must also have been very aware of the risk of leaving Richard in power to take revenge upon him later, as had occurred with the other lords appellant in 1397. More surprising than Bolingbroke wanting the throne, however, was the fact that so many others were willing to support his claim.

Henry being warmly received

Certainly, Henry was very warmly received in many areas, and he may well have been an opportunist who exploited this in order to further his dynastic ambitions.

Richard's absence in Ireland was undoubtedly a crucial factor in this, particularly as he was accompanied by many of his leading supporters, including his formidable Cheshire retinue.,

Richards unpopularity

the fact that even the duke of York, Protector of the Realm, was willing to support a usurper rather than the anointed king is a damning indictment of Richard's unpopularity among many noblemen, who were doubtless frightened by the kings growing aloofness and apparent desire to avenge himself on those guilty of past affronts

Historians such as Nigel Saul and Caroline Barron

particularly emphasised the significance of the king's increasingly tyrannical behaviour in relation to property ownership, with Richard's decision to disinherit Bolingbroke being seen as the crowning example of his willingness to ignore convention and legal restraint to seize a noble's land without just cause.