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Home , Act of Accord, Wars of the Roses

Joint Crisis: War of the — (Red ) Chair: Jake Morris JHUMUNC 2018

Joint Crisis: War of the Roses -House of Lancaster (Red Rose)

Topic A: Trouble at the Court

Topic B: Power Struggle in

Committee Overview appreciates your help in ensuring the preservation of his rule and strengthening of our Dear Fellow Lancastrians, country. Remember, that if you fail, you are all As England continues to recover after a tied to the House of Lancaster and will likely not century of war with France, the House of survive Yorkist rule. On that note, start Lancaster is in a precarious situation. It is preparing to partake in the most consequential March, 1454 and Chancellor has decisions since the end of the Hundred Years suddenly died.1 King Henry VI, your chair, is War. King Henry VI and his royal secretary are currently having a bout of mental illness, and anxiously waiting for your arrival. thus, the majesty’s royal secretary is writing this letter. As royal secretary, it is my job to share the Cheers, King’s intentions with the rest of his government His Royal Majesty’s Royal Secretary and supporters.2 At the moment, our great king is too weak to choose a successor for John Kemp, giving the House of , and potentially others, Parliamentary Procedure opportunity to delegitimize Lancastrian rule. The The Parliamentary Procedure used in this future of the House of Lancaster and even committee will be uniform throughout the entire England is ultimately at stake. As we fight to conference, but because it is a crisis committee, maintain our control, we must also consider the sometimes parliamentary procedure may be King’s health, public sentiment, and potential overlooked to the fast pace of the allies or enemies beyond our shores. committee. In the event of crises, delegates may This court, led by the House of Lancaster change Parliamentary Procedure to reflect the and its allies, must deal with leadership urgency of said crisis. The chair will act as King challenges from the York’s while simultaneously Henry VI, and thus proper respect must be paid. handling a mentally ill King and considerable That being said, this House does have socio-economic issues following a century of special voting rules. Directives and any other warfare. We should acknowledge that people are procedural matters will pass by a simple both fearful of further conflict and weak majority, and abstentions are not allowed. Each leadership. To be successful, we must address delegate has two votes, and can choose to use both challenges by maintaining strong either one or both in each voting procedure (a leadership and preventing conflict. delegate must use at least one unless not present All of you are members or longtime allies in the room). Delegates are able to give one (or of the House of Lancaster, and Henry VI greatly both!) of their votes to another delegate in exchange for monetary aid, loyalty, or any other

1 compensation. Please note that once a delegate "Archbishop John Kemp (1380? - gives their vote to another delegate, they cannot 1454)." Luminarium: Encyclopedia Project. Anninna get it back (though they can buy someone else’s Jokinen, n.d. Web. 07 July 2017. votes). Delegates with five votes will receive King 2 Sommerville, J.P. "Medieval English Henry VI’s deepest respect, and therefore veto Government." Medieval English Government. power. But, since he is king, King Henry can University of Wisconsin, n.d. Web. 16 July 2017. revoke this power from any delegate at any time or due to his illness, forget that he gave it in the

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first place. When King Henry VI is too ill to rule, along with the King, who was only four years old his royal secretary will do his best to relay his at the time.6 He has served as a Council member intentions. when the of York was , but is sympathetic to the cause of Margaret and the Joint Crisis Committee Lancasters.

(JCC) Organization Edmund Beaufort, 2nd Duke of Somerset The Houses of York and Lancaster will be Beaufort comes from one of the greatest functioning as a pair of committees, with English families, as he is cousin to both King interconnected crisis elements, in which all Henry VI and Richard Plantagenet, the Duke of debate in the individual committee rooms will York. Because Beaufort’s inheritance is inferior impact the other committee. While there are to that of his rival Richard of York, King Henry specific concerns that affect each room often compensates by awarding him titles such individually and with which delegates must as Earl of Dorset, Marquess of Dorset, and 7 concern themselves, just as important is the Lieutenant of France. In 1448, Beaufort was inter-house politicking and debate behind the made Duke of Somerset and was appointed to closed doors of the other committee room. Every replace York as commander in France. However, decision made by each committee will impact the his subsequent failures caused a hit to his other, making for multifaceted crisis elements reputation, and he received criticism from York’s 8 and discussion, as well as the potential for supporters. In addition, due to his position as multilateral agreement and conflict. Queen Margaret’s favorite, and given the king’s ill health, rumors have circulated that Beaufort is the true father of Prince Edward.9 As one of the Delegate Biographies Queen’s closest allies and York’s greatest enemies, Beaufort has a highly personal stake in Margaret of this conflict. Margaret is the daughter of Rene of Anjou, titular King of Naples, and became Humphrey Stafford, 1st Duke of England’s queen consort at age 14. She is Buckingham married to King Henry VI and leader of the Due to his father’s death in battle, 3 Lancastrians. Unlike her gentle yet unstable Stafford became Earl of Stafford under husband, Margaret is strong-willed, clever, and when he was only a year old.10 He imperious.4 She reaches easily for power, and secured it most successfully with the birth of her was knighted after serving in France through son, Prince Edward, last year. As the mother of his late teens, and received livery of his lands the Crown Prince, Margaret finally has the at age 20. At 22, he began serving on Henry political power to achieve her goals – if her VI’s council, quickly becoming one of its network of allies stays intact. most prominent members despite his youth.11 He has had a rich military career John de Vere, 12th Although Oxford is one of the poorer of England’s earldoms, de Vere has enjoyed a rich Colonial and Medieval Families. Salt Lake City, UT.: career as a commissioner of peace with France, a Douglas Richardson., 2011. Print.. Justice of the Peace in Norfolk, and army 6 Ibid. officer.5 He was knighted in in 1426 7 Mahoney, Mike. "Edmund Beaufort, 2nd Duke of Somerset." Edmund Beaufort, 2nd Duke of Somerset. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 June 2017. 8 Ibid. 3 The Editors of Encyclopædia Britannica. "Margaret 9 Ibid. of Anjou." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia 10 "Humphrey Stafford, 1st Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 18 June 2017. (1402-1460) []." Luminarium: 4 ", Queen of England (1430-1482) Encyclopedia Project. Luminarium, n.d. Web. 04 July [Wars of the Roses]." Luminarium: Encyclopedia 2017. Project. Luminarium Encyclopedia Project, n.d. Web. 11"Humphrey Stafford, 1st Duke of Buckingham 18 June 2017. (1402-1460) [Wars of the Roses]." Luminarium: 5 Richardson, Douglas, Kimball G. Everingham, and Encyclopedia Project. Luminarium, n.d. Web. 04 July David Faris. Plantagenet Ancestry: A Study in 2017.

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throughout France, and consistently King Henry VI and was brought into the supports Queen Margaret and King Henry royal family and made the Earl of Pembroke against York. in 1452.19 Although Jasper and his brother Edmund are recognized as the half-brothers James Tuchet, 5th Baron Audley of the King, they are not seen as heirs to the Tuchet is a prominent veteran of the crown, as they have no formal attachment to Hundred Years War. He commands an the English throne.20 Both brothers are impressive collection of troops across his various favored by the King, and given precedent estates, and stands ready to support the King over almost all other nobles of the realm.21 and Queen should large-scale military action prove necessary.12 , 3rd Duke of Somerset

Henry is son of Edmund Beaufort, 2nd John Talbot, 2nd Duke of Somerset. He is the Earl of Dorset and Talbot was also knighted in 1426 with the only 18 at the time of this council.22 Through his infant King. He served in France for several father’s substantial role in the English court, years and was appointed Chancellor of Ireland in even at a young age, Henry should find it easy to 1446.13 Only after his father’s death in 1453 did gain influence at the court. John Talbot become the Earl of Shrewsbury.14

Edmund Tudor, 1st Edmund is a son of Owen Tudor and Owen Tudor was appointed Keeper of the Queen Catherine. He is step-brother to King Queen’s Wardrobe after the death of Henry V in Henry VI and was brought into the royal family 1422.15 Legends say he drunkenly fell into Queen and made the Earl of Richmond in 1452.23 Catherine’s lap during a court dance, and the two Although Edmund and his brother Jasper are were secretly married in 1429.16 His children recognized as the half-brothers of the King, they with the Queen were favored by their step are not seen as heirs to the crown as they have no brother, King Henry VI, and awarded titles. formal attachment to the English throne.24 Both Because of his Welsh origin and humble roots, brothers are favored by the King, and given Catherine and Owen chose to live away from precedent over almost all other nobles of the court.17 However, King Henry VI was supportive realm.25 of his stepfather and granted Owen the rights of an Englishman.18 He also pushed back against William Neville, 1st Earl of those who sought to destroy Owen after the William Neville has suffered a lot of Queen’s death. fighting in France. He was recently freed from

being held captive in France. Not only has he lost , Duke of Bedford a lot of money through paying his ransom, but he Jasper Tudor is a son of Owen Tudor has also spent much of his money maintaining and Queen Catherine. He is stepbrother to his lands and property while away. At the moment he is in a lot of debt with the English 12 "Sir James Tuchet, Knight, 5th Baron Audley." Sir James Tuchet, Knight, 5th Baron Audley B. ~ 1398 of 19 Ibid. Heleigh Castle, Heleigh, Stafford, England D. 23 Sep 20 1459 Blore Heath, Staffordshire, England. The Eakins, Lara. "Edmund and Jasper Tudor and Hennessee Family, n.d. Web. 04 July 2017. Margaret Beaufort." Tudor History. Tudor History, n.d. Web. 04 July 2017. 13 "John Talbot, 2nd Earl of Shrewsbury (1413?- 21 1460)." Luminarium: Encyclopedia Project. Ibid. 22 Luminarium, n.d. Web. 04 July 2017. "Henry Beaufort, 3rd Duke of Somerset (1436- 14 Ibid. 1464)." Luminarium: Encyclopedia Project. N.p., n.d. 15 Whitelock, Dr Anna. "How Did a Lowly Welshman Web. 16 July 2017. Bed a Queen and Sire a ?" BBC IWonder. 23 "Henry Beaufort, 3rd Duke of Somerset (1436- BBC, n.d. Web. 04 July 2017. 1464)." Luminarium: Encyclopedia Project. N.p., n.d. 16 Ibid. Web. 16 July 2017. 17 Whitelock, Dr Anna. "How Did a Lowly Welshman 24 Eakins, Lara. "Edmund and Jasper Tudor and Bed a Queen and Sire a Dynasty?" BBC IWonder. Margaret Beaufort." Tudor History. Tudor History, BBC, n.d. Web. 04 July 2017. n.d. Web. 04 July 2017. 18 Ibid. 25 Ibid.

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monarchy largely due to the fact that he was not The Earl of Suffolk even tried to arrange a paid the amount promised whilst in captivity.26 marriage between her and his own son; that is, until he was accused of . Thomas de Ros, 9th Baron de Ros The 9th Baron de Ros is one of King , John Tiptoft Henry VI’s most loyal supporters and has been Highly educated and born into a noble granted many privileges because of this. he was a family, John Tiptoft is finding himself half-brother to the Beauforts.27 As a half-brother increasingly entangled in the happenings of the to the Beauforts, Thomas could likely gain court. Appointed as both lord high treasurer and substantial power at the court. privy counsellor, he will be in office during a tumultuous time. Henry Holland, Duke of Exeter Henry Holland has both ties to the Thomas Stanley, 1st Earl of Derby House of Lancaster and the . Born to a wealthy family with While he is an important Lancastrian leader, connections to the Crown, Thomas Stanley has he also married Anne, Richard of York’s recently become a squire to King Henry VI.31 daughter.28 Additionally, his grandmother is Though just having started his career, Thomas Stanley has proven himself to be skillful at sister to the King. maneuvering the court.

James II, King of Thomas Bourchier James II’s mother was half-niece of Thomas Bourchier is from a prominent King Henry IV, making him a relative of the noble family. Son of the Count of Eu and the Beauforts. Much violence surrounded him granddaughter of King Edward III, Thomas when he was young, and different factions in Bourchier had no difficulties moving up in rank Scotland fought amongst themselves and in the .32 Gaining support plotted to dispose of James II. The from both the House of York and the House of Douglass's ended up gaining much control Lancaster, Thomas Bourchier is in line to over the court, and they would become King become the next .33 James II's greatest enemies.29 John de Vere 13th Earl of Oxford nd th John de Vere is the 2 son of the 12 Earl 34 Only daughter of a powerful family and of Oxford, who is a Lancastrian supporter. an heir to great wealth since she was very young, Though still very young, he is growing up in a Lady Margaret Beaufort is no stranger to the tumultuous time and will have a large role to powerful nobles of court. She was made ward to play in the imminent conflict. The decisions of the Earl of Suffolk, cared for by the Duchess of his family will be consequential to him in future Somerset later on, and lastly placed in the conflicts. guardianship of the King’s own half-brothers.30 Humphrey Stafford the Younger, Earl of Stafford 26 "William Neville, Baron Fauconberg and Earl of Humphrey Stafford the Younger is the Kent (d. 1463)." Luminarium: Encyclopedia Project. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 July 2017. 27 Cokayne, George Edward (1949). The Complete 31 "Thomas Stanley, 1st Earl of Derby." Encyclopædia Peerage, edited by Geoffrey H. White. XI. : St. Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. Catherine Press. 12 July 2017. 32 "Thomas Bourchier." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 12 July 28 "Henry Holland, Duke of Exeter (c.1430-1473)." 2017. Luminarium: Encyclopedia Project. Anninna 33 "Thomas Bourchier." CATHOLIC Jokinen, 2012. Web. ENCYCLOPEDIA: Thomas Bourchier. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 "Scotland's History - James II, King of Scots." BBC. 12 July 2017. BBC, n.d. Web. 12 July 2017. 34 "John De Vere, 13th Earl of Oxford." 30 "Early Years." Lady Margaret. Tudor History, n.d. Geni_family_tree. N.p., 05 Oct. 2016. Web. 12 July Web. 12 July 2017. 2017.

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eldest son of a notable family which supports extension of centralized control, public outreach, King Henry VI and Queen Margaret. He is and better governance in all areas. We cannot the son of Humphrey Stafford, the First wait to act while the English public slowly loses Duke of Buckingham and his younger trust in their leaders. brother is Sir Henry Stafford.35 He is also The Lancasters have formally been in power for over fifty years, but can trace their married to Lady Margaret Beaufort, lineage back to King Henry I and the start of the nd daughter of the 2 Duke of Somerset. The in the 11th century.38 Both nd 2 Duke of Somerset is closely tied to the the Yorks and Lancasters stake their claims to King and Queen, which means that the throne in Edward III, who reigned from 1327 Humphrey Stafford the Younger has much to to 1377 and led England into the Hundred Years be cautious of as the House of York eyes the War against France.39 Ever since, his throne. descendants have argued over the rightful heirs to the throne, climaxing in our recent situation. Sir Henry Stafford Starting in 1422 when King Henry VI took Sir Henry Stafford is the son of power, there have been problems with his Humphrey Stafford, the 1st Duke of leadership, mainly stemming from his health.40 Buckingham.36 Like his father, he sides with This has been exacerbated by family members Queen Margaret and King Henry VI against and powerful nobles competing for power in his York; however, as the second son, he is not in absence over the past 40 years, bringing line to inherit his father’s title or estate. He is not violence, heavy taxation, and other socio- one to overlook and may wish to gain more economic burdens to much of the country.41 With political standing. this in mind, it is no wonder that the Yorks have started staking a claim to the throne. To complicate matters further, Margaret of Anjou, Topic A: Trouble at the Court Henry’s wife, has held substantial power at the royal court for years, especially when her 42 Introduction husband is too ill to capably lead. Combined, these factors have led us to our current situation Dealing with the Yorks is difficult in March 1454. enough, but the Lancasters must simultaneously deal with Henry’s mental illness, subsequent History and Background weak leadership, complicated family dynamics, Information and the assurance that the continuation of power in the hands of this family. Considering Henry’s As the Hundred Years War comes to an illness, this will be a challenging task, yet we end, we find our country fractured. Our people must remember that the Lancasters are the have grown restless because we threw away rightful heirs to the throne of England.37 To countless funds and lives into a fruitless war. The achieve our twin goals of restoring confidence in nobles have lost land and wealth, aimless King Henry VI while simultaneously preventing veterans roam our streets, and the citizens of conflict, we must understand our past and have a England turn to an incompetent King for vision for the future. King Henry VI and his closest advisors believe this will best be accomplished through actions in a combination of areas including improvements in his health, stronger control in the countryside, tax reform, 38"Wars of the Roses." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 13 July 35 "Humphrey Stafford, Earl Stafford." 2017. Geni_family_tree. Geni, 07 Oct. 2016. Web. 16 July 39 Ibid. 2017. 40 Ibid. 36 "Lady Margaret Beaufort (1443 - 509)." Tudor 41 "Wars of the Roses." Encyclopædia Britannica. Times. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 July 2017. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 13 July 37 "Wars of the Roses." Encyclopædia Britannica. 2017. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 13 July 42 "Margaret of Anjou." Encyclopaedia Britannica. 2017. Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 13 July 2017.

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guidance.43 This time of weakness leaves us 1387, he and four other nobles, known as the vulnerable, as the Yorks will take every lord’s appellants, outlawed Richard’s closest opportunity to claw for control of the crown. supporters and demanded the king submit to The aftermath of the Hundred Years’ War their control.49 stands as one of the primary contributors to the After two years of conflict, Gaunt country’s unrest. Although Henry V found great returned and attempted to diffuse the situation. success in battle, with Henry VI we inherit heavy Henry and his companions splintered during losses and a severe lack of morale.44 We have lost these negotiations, and the King took the most of our French holdings, and battle- opportunity to banish them. When John of hardened soldiers flood back into the country Gaunt died in 1399, the crown further attacked with nothing to occupy their time, fresh for Henry by seizing the Lancastrian estates and manipulation and recruitment by rival nobles. restricting him from accessing his inheritance.50 Henry VI’s rapidly declining mental The combination of banishment and being health also breeds trouble amongst his enemies. robbed of his estate gave Henry the platform to Although Margaret of Anjou is trying her best to invade England in July of 1399 as a “champion of keep hold of political control, the Yorks are the .”51 Richard surrendered to him in taking the opportunity to stake their claim to the August, and Henry began his reign as Henry IV throne, one we have thwarted for decades.45 The in September of that year. crown prince is only a year old but he is a Henry IV’s reign was riddled with Lancaster, and it is the duty of this council to rebellion and a lack of clear control. His son, secure the throne to ensure the continuation of Henry V, found more success and made great our rule. strides towards military dominance in France during the Hundred Years War.52 The Treaty of Brief History of the Lancasters Troyes, signed in 1420 after Henry V’s victories, declared that the British would take the French The Lancasters first seized control of the throne.53 Our King Henry VI succeeded his throne in 1399 when Henry IV usurped his father as King of England in September 1422, cousin Richard II.46 Originally Henry and succeeded his grandfather as King of France Bolingbroke of Lancaster, Henry IV was the only a month later. eldest son of , . As the domestic political sphere rumbled He was made Earl of Derby and Duke of over the years, so did England’s hold on France. by King Richard II in 1377 and 1397 A truce was drawn in 1445, which stipulated respectively.47 Henry VI marrying Margaret of Anjou, a niece of In the early stages of Richard II’s reign, the French queen.54 However, it was largely Henry removed himself from the inner workings ineffective as English-controlled lands such as of the court while his father took a more Maine, Normandy, and were lost.55 prominent role. However, when Gaunt left for an Although the Yorks are pushing for the expedition to Spain in 1386, Henry took the crown and King Henry VI is suffering heavy opportunity to aggressively enter the political losses in France, with the help of this council, sphere as an enemy of the crown.48 Beginning in there is still time to regain control of both our country and our captured territories abroad.

43 "Henry VI." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 09 July 2017. 44 "Henry IV." Encyclopædia Britannica. 49 Ibid. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 05 July 2017 50 Ibid. 45 "Henry VI." Encyclopædia Britannica. 51 Ibid. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 09 July 52 "The War of the Roses." History.com. A&E 2017. Television Networks, n.d. Web. 06 July 2017. 46 Andrews, Evan. "9 Things You Should Know About 53 "Henry VI." Encyclopædia Britannica. the Wars of the Roses." History.com. A&E Television Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 09 July Networks, 22 May 2015. Web. 05 July 2017. 2017. 47 "Henry IV." Encyclopædia Britannica. 54 "Henry VI." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 05 July 2017 Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 09 July 48 "Henry IV." Encyclopædia Britannica. 2017. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 05 July 2017 55 Ibid.

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The King’s Problems Englishman as well as the absence of foreign coercion. The only way this vision can be Inheriting the crown at just nine-months accomplished is through continuation of old and inheriting a second one with the death of Lancastrian leadership with King Henry VI and his grandfather King Charles VI of France, Henry subsequently through his son, Prince Edward. VI was never prepared to rule two empires.56 You will have succeeded if England is internally From a young age, those around him have and externally at peace with the Lancasters still already been plotting and taking sides on who firmly in control. would take his place. It did not help that King Henry VI’s political decisions always seemed to Recent International Action be going awry, and his appointed advisors never really being there to help. Not very long after the beginning of King While pious and devout, Henry VI has Henry VI’s bout of madness, the first of the found it difficult to deal with the machinations of fighting broke out between the 16th Earl of his court—so much so, that he lost his mind. No Warwick and the Earls of .60 As one is sure exactly what is wrong with the King, the fighting between the English nobility began, but he has been distraught ever since he heard of the Hundred Years War also came to a close with the loss of Bordeaux.57 Maybe it was also the England losing all of France but the small port stress of the recent uprisings due to his poorly city of .61 In October of 1545, Margaret of executed taxation policies or even the problems Anjou gave birth to a son who would displace the in his own court.58 While he has forsaken his role as the .62 It is now as King for now and made way for someone else March. Just a few days ago on March 15, Edward to step in, his problems are far from gone, if not was made the Prince of . As the only son of worsened. Margaret of Anjou and King Henry VI, this child The uprisings, including Jack Cade’s is the rightful heir to the throne and the only Rebellion, have ceased and the rebels hanged, hope for the House of Lancaster and our grasp but the people are unhappy with the King. King on England. With King Henry VI incapacitated Henry VI’s rivals are also using his moment of for an undetermined amount of time, decisions weakness to their advantage. As the Duke of have to be made on who will take charge. The , Cardinal Beaufort and the Duke of Duke of York is threatening our hold on the Suffolk continue their power struggles in court; court. At the moment he aims to become the The Duke of York and the Duke of Somerset face Lord Protector during King Henry VI’s absence. off for the crown as the rest of the court chooses In the meantime, we must do our best to prevent sides.59 France has slipped out of King Henry this. We must support Queen Margaret as she VI’s grasp, and England may just as well fall into defends the King’s throne during his absence for the control of the House of York if we do not the future of her son and the House of Lancaster. intervene. Conclusion House of Lancaster’s Platform How the Lancastrian supporters organize As King Henry VI’s royal secretary, I can their house and face its challenges in these assure you that what the king truly desires is the turbulent times will have a considerable impact brightest future possible for all of England, a on the future of England. The Lancasters have future with prosperity and peace for every ruled England since the 14th century and for the

56 "Henry VI." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 12 July 2017.

57 Gregory, Philippa. "." Henry VI - 60Palmer, Alan; Palmer, Veronica (1992). The Philippa Gregory. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 July 2017. Chronology of British History. London: Century Ltd. 58 "Cade's Rebellion." Encyclopædia Britannica. pp. 125–128. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 12 July 61 Ibid. 2017. 62 A.Wagner, John. "Edward of Lancaster, Prince of 59 "Henry VI." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 09 July Wales." Academic Dictionaries and Encyclopedias. 2017. N.p., n.d. Web. 12 July 2017.

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first time, our rule is legitimately at risk.63 phenomenon, a development that has put the Without concrete action and difficult decision Yorks closer to the throne than they have ever making, the Lancasters will lose all they have been. Subsequently, England is moving ever worked for over the past 60 years. King Henry closer to civil war, a development which we must VI will not always be in the proper condition to prevent to the best of our abilities. In the end, if lead England in our desired direction, yet he is efforts at prevention are a failure, it is clear that still our King, and thus, you must strike a we must be victorious. balance between bowing to his leadership and At the moment, Richard of York is sending this country in the direction it must go. uneasily holding power at the court, ever aware that Margaret of Anjou, Henry’s wife, as well as Questions to Consider Edmund, the Duke of Somerset, desperately attempted to keep him from becoming Protector 1. What should be done about Henry VI’s of the Realm in the first place.66 In this mental illness? environment, civil war is imminent and the House of Lancaster as well as its allies should be 2. What role should Margaret of Anjou ready to act. The combination of high taxes, have in leading England? weak leadership, and armed men streaming home from France recently brought on Jack 3. How do we protect Prince Edward and Cade’s rebellion, one of the most serious ensure he one day becomes King of uprisings in centuries.67 Jack Cade even England? identified himself with the Duke of York during the rebellion, clearly showing that many in 4. How do you win the favor the people England are unhappy with King Henry VI’s when the there are many supporters of rule.68 Consequently, while we monitor the Yorks the House of York and extensive socio- for signs of aggression, we must also keep close economic challenges? tabs on potential internal and external enemies or allies. 5. How do we prevent conflict with the Additionally, it is imperative to Yorks and foreigners? remember that our king, Henry VI, is still struggling with mental illness, and until it Topic B: Power Struggle in subsides, it will be difficult to remove Richard from the court. Nonetheless, as many historians England have noted, England can effectively still govern itself without a king whether that means they are Introduction incapable of leadership due to illness, 69 As we speak, the Yorks are coming ever imprisonment, or other unfortunate affairs. If closer to controlling the English throne, an event able to expand on this, the Lancastrians could which we must not allow. As of March 1454, potentially invalidate Richard’s claim to the Richard of York has been named Protector of the throne and combined, these factors will set the Realm due to Henry’s inability to govern.64 stage for potential conflict between the two most Protector of the Realm is an incredibly important powerful houses in England. title, essentially making Richard of York king in all but name.65 As leader of the Yorks, the Lancasters are incredibly worried about this new

63 Andrews, Evan. "9 Things You Should Know About the Wars of the Roses." History.com. History.com, 22 66 Santiuste, David. "A History of the Yorkist Realm." May 2015. Web. 15 July 2017. Reflections of the Yorkist Realm. Reflections of the Yorkist Realm, n.d. Web. 03 Aug. 2017. 64 "The War of the Roses." History.com. A&E 67 "Cade's Rebellion." Encyclopaedia Britannica. Television Networks, 22 May 2017. Web. 28 July Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2017. Web. 03 Aug. 2017. 2017. 68 Ibid. 65 Ross, David. "The , Henry VI and the 69 James, Tom. "History - British History in Depth: Wars of the Roses." Britain Express. Britain Express, Overview: The , 1154 - 1485." BBC. BBC, n.d. Web. 03 Aug. 2017. 17 June 2011. Web. 03 Aug. 2017.

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History and Background 1327.76 He saw the beginning of the Hundred Information Years War against France, and fought alongside his first son and heir Edward, the Black Prince. Since Henry V’s death in 1422, the Edward III’s second son, Lionel, dealt primarily English kingdom has been primarily controlled with the affairs of Ireland while his third son, by the “king’s council,” a body of aristocrats that John of Gaunt, ruled England during his father vote on matters of state.70 King Henry VI’s weak and brothers’ frequent absence.77 Edward III reign has split this council into factions, all struggled with the war for his entire reign, fighting for influence within the court.71 Similar having varied periods of success and failure, but to Richard II, from whom we Lancasters first left the fighting to his sons due to his old age in gained the throne, Henry VI has many powerful 1369. When the Black Prince died several years relatives who are more than willing to exploit the later, John of Gaunt held significant political weakness of the current monarch in order to control.78 shift the line of succession.72 Legally, the throne fell on the Black The most significant of which is surely Prince’s son, and Edward III’s grandson, Richard the House of York. Richard, third duke of York, II. He succeeded the throne at only 10 years of has been garnering the support of the nobles for age.79 As detailed in Topic A, the Lancaster line, the past four years and is the head of a powerful led by Henry IV, son of John of Gaunt, grabbed baronial league comprised mostly of his for power and took the throne during his reign. kinsmen.73 When the king’s health deteriorated Unfortunately for us, three generations later, significantly earlier this year, it was by the power Richard of York does have a legal claim to the of this league that he was installed as Protector throne. Although his claim should be rightly of the Realm. His most significant lieutenant, his “barred by prescription” due to the fact that we nephew Richard Neville, the earl of Warwick, is have held the throne for decades, it is gaining extremely distinguished and was a driving force traction because of his slanderous campaign behind the shift of power. against our King and Queen.80 Richard of York’s appointment is a The people are receptive of his claim significant hit to our authority, but it is not our because Richard of York is descended from only problem. Due to the lack of strong Lionel, Duke of Clarence, who was the second leadership for the past few years, powerful adult son of Edward III.81 However, Richard’s individual nobles with private armies riddle our weakness, in addition to the fact that he is countryside.74 Those organized forces in addition attempting to usurp an existing line, is that he to the aimless veterans returning from the lays claim to the throne through a female line, as warfront mean a significant pool of trained his great grandmother was Lionel’s daughter.82 soldiers ready for the taking, a dangerous factor We may be able to use this information against to consider in our plans.75 Winning over these him, but we must be wary, for he holds the nobles may be the key to a military victory highest esteem of the people due to his copious against the Yorks should it prove necessary. wealth, titles, and land. However, keep in mind that the lawlessness and heavy taxation currently dominating England The House of York may prove a dangerous stage for such a victory— keeping the country from falling apart in this Lineage and Claim time of distress is our top priority. The power struggle between the House of York and the House of Lancaster can be traced Claims to the Throne 76 BBC Editors. “History - Edward III.” BBC, BBC. The history of our conflict with the Yorks 77 Ibid. goes back to Edward III, who became king in 78 Ibid 79 “Richard II.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 70 “Wars of the Roses.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc Encyclopædia Britannica 80 “Wars of the Roses: House of York [Genealogical 71 "History - King Henry VI." BBC. BBC, 2014. Web. Chart and Overview of This Line of English 72 Ibid. Kings].”Luminarium: Encyclopedia Project, 73 Ibid. Luminarium. 74 Ibid. 81 Ibid. 75 Ibid. 82 Ibid.

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back to Edward III of the ruling Plantagenet owns a lot of other property and has also House.83 Of his sons, Edward Junior was in line inherited Castle which is where his sons to inherit the throne while John was made Duke reside.89 But as Lord Protector, the Duke of York of York, and Edmund was made Duke of will spend much of his time at court now. Lancaster; however, Edmund Junior would die Cecily Neville is the 3rd Duchess of York is before inheriting the throne which then passed the wife of Richard 3rd Duke of York.90 She is also on to his only son, Richard Plantagenet II.84 The the daughter of Sir Ralph Neville.91 Thus, she is a throne would then pass on to Henry Lancaster, part of the powerful Neville family. Cecily Neville the son of King Richard II’s regent. Ever since and Richard 3rd Duke of York have known each then, the throne has belonged to the House of other since a very young age, and the Duke of Lancaster. York is very close to the Neville family.92 The House of York attempts to lay claim Edward, the , is the eldest to the throne over the House of Lancaster son of the 3rd Duke and Duchess of York through agnatic , both female and surviving to this point in time. As the Duke of male lineages of his family.85 However, the York’s son, he is a crucial part of the House of Lancaster Henry IV was made king many years York and a major player in the power struggle.93 ago, and every king since has been of the House He can be expected to play a major role in the of Lancaster. England’s crown belongs to King future with the guidance of the Duke of York and Henry VI right now, and it shall pass to his son his allies. He and his brother Edmund have afterwards. The throne is to remain in Lancaster spent much of their time at , and it holding. is where he currently resides.94 Richard Neville, the 5th Earl of Salisbury, Important leaders helped to make the 3rd Duke of York the protector of the realm despite the fact that The Richard the 3rd Duke of York is 3rd Duke of York’s enemy is his first cousin, the attempting to claim the throne for himself and Duke of Somerset.95 He is an important ally of his House and has just been made the Lord Richard Duke of York; furthermore, he has Protector of England. Unlike King Henry VI, the gained the role of Chancellor after the Duke of Duke of York has gained much popularity in York was made Lord Protector.96 He is currently England amongst the laymen. Some of his in conflict with the Percies and Cliffords and will greatest allies are the Nevilles, while one of his also use his growing power for revenge against greatest enemies is the Duke of Somerset who these powerful families.97 has held much power in King Henry VI’s court.86 Richard Earl of Warwick is the nephew of With his new position, the Duke of York will do the 3d Duke of York and is also attempting to all that he can to strip the Duke of Somerset of gain more power during this time and is a part of his power and his property.87 Currently, Richard of York has inherited in which 88 dominates the town of in . 89 Wood, Hugh. Ludlow Castle - History Besides Sandal Castle, the Duke of York also Society. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Aug. 2017. 90 83 "Who's Who in the Wars of the Roses: Cecily Burris, Skylar Hamilton. "English British Royalty Neville." AncestralFindings.com. N.p., 12 Jan. 2017. Overview." Skylar Hamilton Burris: Author, Poet, Web. 11 Aug. 2017. Essayist, and Editor. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Aug. 2017. 91 Ibid. 84 Ibid. 92 Ibid. 85 "Richard of York's Claim to the English Throne." 93 "Edward IV." Encyclopædia Britannica. Luminarium: Encyclopedia Project. N.p., n.d. Web. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 11 Aug. 09 Aug. 2017. 2017. 86 "Wars of the Roses: Richard, Duke of York (c.1410- 94 Wood, Hugh. Ludlow Castle - Mortimer History 1460) [Richard of York, Richard Plantagenet]." Society. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Aug. 2017. Luminarium: Encyclopedia Project. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 95 Richard Neville, Earl of Salisbury. Shakespeare Aug. 2017. and History, n.d. Web. 11 Aug. 2017. 87 Duke of Somerset. Shakespeare and History, n.d. 96 "Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick, 'The ' Web. 11 Aug. 2017 (1428-1471) [Wars of the Roses; Nevil, Nevill, Earl of 88 Sandal Castle and the (1460) | Salisbury]." Luminarium: Encyclopedia Project. N.p., Yorkshire | Castles, Forts and Battles. N.p., n.d. Web. n.d. Web. 11 Aug. 2017. 09 Aug. 2017. 97 Ibid.

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the House of York. 98 He is the son of one of Conclusion Richard Duke of York’s greatest allies, Richard The Yorks are closer to power than they 5th Earl of Salisbury.99 Though young, he is have ever been, a situation that has sown great expected to be an important supporter of the fear in Lancastrian leaders. To make matters House of York. worse, you have an unstable king with an unknown timeline on his return to well-being. House of Lancaster’s Platform Nevertheless, we are the rightful rulers of England! The Yorks, especially under Richard’s As of March 1454, it is looking ever more leadership, will try their best to unseat us at the likely that we will be required to fight the Yorks court, but we will not allow that to happen. and their allies to retain Lancastrian leadership Losing the throne would put the Lancastrian of the throne. In this event, our preeminent house and everything we stand for in serious concern is victory, but in addition, we must take danger, including passing control to Prince care to limit the damage to average Englishman Edward, fixing the socio-economic ills of this as they will likely hold this against the victors country, and preventing incursion from hostile after any war. Furthermore, we cannot forget foreign forces. that our king is still incredibly ill, a lack of leadership that could greatly hurt us in time of war. Questions to Consider 1. What are the best ways to maintain Recent International Action control?

The House of York is looking to take 2. How do we convince the population revenge for the abuses they feel they have that Henry VI is indeed not an inept suffered under the House of Lancaster. Believing leader? in their claim to the throne, the House of York is attempting to take advantage of the current 3. How do we delegitimize the House of political instability and infirmity of the King York? Henry VI. The House of York offensive is led by

Richard, 3rd Duke of York, who has the greatest 4. Are there any domestic or foreign allies claim to the throne compared to the rest of his that we should consider in any fight House. The most significant event in recent with the Yorks? times is the instatement of the Duke of York to the Protectorship.100 He is supported by the 5. How do we limit the impact of war on Duke of Warwick and the Duke of Somerset. the English public? Personal between Houses are starting to become ever more violent. Enemies of the House 6. How do we protect Prince Edward, the of York, such as the Duke of Somerset as well as heir to the throne? the Percy and Clifford family, should be vigilant at this time.101 The House of Lancaster must raise their defenses.

98 "Origins of the Wars of the Roses." Wars of the Roses. N.p., n.d. Web. 08 Aug. 2017. 99 "Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick, 'The Kingmaker' (1428-1471) [Wars of the Roses; Nevil, Nevill, Earl of Salisbury]." Luminarium: Encyclopedia Project. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Aug. 2017. 100 "Timeline." Wars of the Roses. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Aug. 2017. 101 "Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick, 'The Kingmaker' (1428-1471) [Wars of the Roses; Nevil, Nevill, Earl of Salisbury]." Luminarium: Encyclopedia Project. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Aug. 2017.

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