Downfall of the Duke of Suffolk in 1450

Why was the Duke of Suffolk, William de la Pole, very unpopular? (4 key reasons)

• He had negotiated the treaty of Tours 1444

• 1449- Key advocate for the English attack on Fougeres which triggered Charles VII’s retaliatory attacks on Normandy and resulted in Massive English defeats

• Leading member of Henry VI’s government which was in massive financial difficultly

• Widely regarded as a figure who manipulated the king’s weakness to ensure he was given his share of royal patronage

When was Suffolk imprisoned in the Tower of London and why?

1450

The loss of France and national desire for a scapegoat meant that he was targeted by parliament.

What charges did the Duke of Suffolk receive?

Henry VI was reluctant to condemn his former favourite and had him cleared of all charges BUT he agreed to banish the duke for 5 years beginning on 1 May 1450

Where did Suffolk go when he was released due to increased hostility? What was his fate?

He left for the Low Countries with a small group of loyal retainers but he was intercepted by a privateering ship and was taken prisoner by its crew.

How and when did Suffolk die?

A mock trial happened on the privateering ship and the sailors claiming the right to act for the public good beheaded Suffolk on the 2nd May 1950.