Edward IV married Elizabeth Woodville in 1464 in a secret marriage that caused a political stir. The queen’s family became prominent at court, which sparked resentment among some nobles, contributing to political tensions. They had ten children, including the future kings Edward V and Richard III.

Edward’s sudden death in 1483, at the age of 40, precipitated a succession crisis. His heir, Edward V, was only 12 years old, and his brother Richard, Duke of Gloucester, was named Protector. Soon after, Edward V and his brother disappeared from the Tower of London, known historically as the Princes in the Tower, a mystery that remains unsolved. Richard III seized the throne, further extending the dynastic conflict.

Despite his relatively short life, Edward IV’s reign was crucial in ending much of the internal warfare that had plagued England. His military skill, political acumen, and efforts to stabilize the kingdom laid the groundwork for the eventual Tudor dynasty, which would emerge victorious under Henry VII.

Conclusion

Edward IV’s life was emblematic of the volatility of 15th-century England. From his early years fighting for his family’s claim, to his reign marked by military victories, political upheaval, and court intrigues, he remains one of the most compelling figures of the Wars of the Roses. His legacy is intertwined with the dramatic transformation of the English monarchy and the path toward a more centralized and powerful kingdom. shutdown123