Edward IV

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Edward IV (1442-83) King of England (1461-70, 1471-83):

Eldest son of Richard, Duke of York and Cicely Neville. His father had claimed the throne for the Yorkist lineage against the Lancastrian. After Richard's death at the battle of Wakefield Edward was recognised as king on Henry's deposition in 1461. He was strongly supported by his cousin Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick. Edward's secret marriage with Elizabeth Woodville, however, alienated the cousins. Warwick sent Edward into exile in Holland and reinvested Henry VI in 1470. On Edward's return in March 1471 he was immediately restored to kingship. Edward defeated Warwick at the battle of Barnet and crushed the Lancastrian forces at Tewkesbury. He had Henry VI murdered in the Tower of London. Though Edward remained secure for the rest of his reign, by the murder of his brother George and the rivalry with his brother Richard he left a troubled legacy.

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