Personality of Henry VI and it’s impact on the governing of England

When did Henry VI inherit the titles of the English and French thrones?

In 1422 after the deaths of Henry V and Charles VI

How old was Henry was he inherited the throne?

9 months old

Who ruled the countries in Henry’s youth? Why was this a problem?

Separate councils of adult nobleman who would make decisions in place of the king.

The nobles in both countries disagreed on important points of policy and in England there was extreme hostility between some of the king’s main councillors.

When was it deemed that Henry had reached the age of majority?

Around 14 or 15 years, so from 1437 he could start his adult reign.

Why was Henry’s position as a child monarch a hindrance to him?

He became reliant on advisors and very easily influenced since he had never had a living example of how a monarch should manage advisors.

What kingly pursuits did Henry have little interest in?

• He had little military interest or capability

• Jousting

• Hunting

What issues did Henry VI inherit from Henry V’s reign?

Henry V’s military campaigns had been very expensive so his heir inherited a difficult financial situation. This was reinforced by the costs of maintaining English claims in France.

What indicated the fact that the royal finances were in a poor state?

Henry was often poorly dressed which was very unusual for a king who was supposed to display wealth and power.

Give a statistic on the mismanagement of funds by Henry VI’s government

It has been estimated that, by 1450, the crown owed around £370,00, an amount equivalent to about £168 million today.

Why was it difficult for Henry VI to persuade people to support him with taxation?

He was such an unimpressive ruler

Why was Henry’s religiousness a sign of poor leadership?

He was more devoted to god than being a king.

Give evidence for Henry VI being deeply religious

He personally set up two institutions for educating future priests: Eton (founded in 1440) and King’s College, Cambridge (founded 1441).

John Blackman a contemporary priest who knew the king personally wrote an assessment of his character.

When had Henry VI entered a type of coma?

1453

What issue did Henry’s mental incapacity raise?

It increased tensions between the Duke of Somerset and the Duke of York who both wished to control government.

In early 1454 Margaret also made a bid to rule as regent but this was opposed by parliament due to her sex and nationality.

Who was appointed regent during Henry VI’s mental incapacity? Why was this bad for Margaret?

Richard of York who Margaret feared would try to disinherit her baby son.

Who was placed in prison during York’s period as regent?

York placed Somerset in prison during this period as Protector and Defender of the realm, further isolating the queen.

When did Henry recover from his mental incapacity?

Christmas 1454

When was Richard of York relieved of his duties as protector of the realm?

February 1455

When was the First Battle of St Albans? What happened?

May 1455

York supported by the Nevilles, took up arms against Henry VI, Somerset and the Percies.

What was the outcome of the First Battle of St Albans 1455?

This battle was a victory for the Yorkists, with Somerset being killed and branded a traitor. They captured the king and escorted him to London.

What did the Yorkists do with a captured Henry VI?

A carefully staged ceremony took place on the 25 May at St Paul’s Cathedral, whereby Henry was reinstated as king and the Yorkists took vows of loyalty to him, but it was clear they were intending to take advantage of the king.

What roles were given to supporters of Richard?

Captain of Calais was given to Richard Neville, earl of Warwick

When was Richard reinstated as Protector of the Realm?

In November 1455, when Henry’s health deteriorated again.

How was Richard removed from his role as Protector of the Realm? And when?

York had failed to consolidate his power and Lancastrian supporters in the royal government ensured that by February 1456 he was removed, particularly Margaret was involved.

What was ‘Loveday’?

A public ceremony of reconciliation in London between the two sides. The queen walked arm-in-arm with York and the earl of Salisbury walked with the new Duke of Somerset. They then attended a religious ceremony at St Paul’s in an attempt to show contrition and a love a peace.

Who pushed for the ‘Loveday’ ceremony?

Henry VI

Why was the ‘Loveday’ peace short lived?

October 1459- Battle at Ludford Bridge