Edward IV
First Renaissance King
Edward’s policies pioneered the way for the Tudors. He was the Merchant King, an advocate of commerce, and a patron of William Caxton, England’s first printer. He replaced the instability and bankruptcy of his predecessor with peace, prosperity, and grandeur, dying rich and well respected at the early age of 40.
Edward’s Final Wishes
Richard of Gloucester was Edward IV’s only living brother, so it seemed only natural that Edward would make him his young son’s Protector on his deathbed. There was something else Edward wanted to do – reconcile his best friend William Hastings with his wife’s family. Perhaps Edward IV really didn't trust his brother after all.
Edward IV
The Alleged Precontract
The Croyland Chronicler calls it the “colour” for Richard’s usurpation. The church was never consulted for its opinion, and Edward V was never given a proper defense. For all its importance, the alleged precontract is just another item on the list that Richard’s Parliament drew up to justify Richard III’s claim to the throne.
Blaming the Dead Guy
Edward’s reign was so successful that historians have hunted for reasons why the succession didn’t peaceably pass to his son. Perversely turning their attention from those directly responsible, they blame Edward for what happened after his death.
Was Edward IV Illegitimate?
I am skeptical of allegations of illegitimacy attached to important people. It’s a easy charge to make because the accuser doesn’t need “proof,” just the allusion/illusion of proof. Edward was and continues to be a target for these attacks, which are based on rumor, bias, and speculation.
Do York and Lancaster Really Matter After 1471?
After Henry VI and his son were killed in 1471, the partisans of Lancaster had choices: They could flee as Jasper Tudor did; continue a lonely fight against Edward as the Earl of Oxford did; or make their peace with Edward IV as most of them did. After Richard usurped the throne, the labels “Lancaster” and “York” meant even less.
Brotherly Love?
Kendall’s idea that there was fraternal love between Edward IV and Richard is an enticing idea. However, it was in Richard’s self-interest to be loyal to Edward while he was alive. It was after his death that Richard’s love for his brother really counted, but Richard destroyed everyone Edward loved.