Understanding the Wars of the Roses: A Medieval Power Struggle

Introduction to the Wars of the Roses

The Wars of the Roses were a series of civil wars fought for control of the throne of England during the late 15th century. These conflicts involved two rival dynasties: the House of Lancaster and the House of York.

Origins and Causes

The roots of the wars can be traced back to disputes over succession and political power, compounded by economic unrest. The rivalry intensified as both houses claimed legitimacy to the throne. For an in-depth look at the political landscape, visit our English Medieval Politics section.

Major Battles and Events

The conflicts saw several significant battles, including the Battle of Towton and the Battle of Bosworth Field. The latter marked the end of the wars and led to the rise of the Tudor dynasty. To understand the key battles, check out our Battle of Bosworth Field overview.

Impact and Legacy

The Wars of the Roses resulted in the overthrow of the Plantagenet dynasty and paved the way for the Tudor era. These wars also profoundly influenced the expansion of royal power and medieval political culture. Explore more about this period in our Tudor Dynasty article.

Further Reading

Learn about the key figures and events that shaped this turbulent period, and discover how the conflicts are remembered today through historical sites and literature.