Battle of Bosworth

On 22nd August 1485, Henry’s army faced Richard’s army near Leicester. This was the last War of the Roses, which had been fights between the Yorkist and Lancastrian line.

Henry arrived at Mill Bay in Wales. Henry gained an army of about 5,000 - 6,000 soldiers. Richard had an army of 10,000, outnumbering Henry’s forces.

Lord Stanley and his brother, William switched sides at the last minute. William Stanley intervened in the battle, protecting Henry from Richard.

Use of Parliament

Henry held his first parliament after his coronation to show he doesn’t need the parliament. In his first parliament, they declared Henry was King by hereditary title and grace of God.

They reversed and passed Attainders, rewarding Henry’s supporters at Bosworth. Tunnage and poundage were granted for the King’s life and the Act of Resumption enabled Henry to reclaim lands held by Henry VI.

They passed acts to ensure maintenance of peace and enforcement of law and they approved a new oath of loyalty to be sworn. They nullified an act that declared the children of Edward IV illegitimate.

Use of Propaganda

Tudor Rose - Henry merged the red rose of the Lancastrians and white rose of the Yorkists as a symbol of reconciliation.

Arthur - Henry named his son Arthur after King Arthur who was a symbol of honourable kingship.

Red Dragon - He fought under the red Welsh banner, presenting himself as reputable.

Cadwaldr - The champion horse was bedecked in black cloth embroidered with Cadwaldr’s arms (the last Welsh King)

Portcullis - Henry’s chapel in Westminster was decorated in portcullis which was his mother’s family emblem.

Lancastrianism - Henry VIII was named after Henry VI and the Pope canonised him, making his tomb a pilgrimage.

Coronation and Marriage

27th October - They dined in Lambert Palace then proceeded to the Tower of London.

28th October - Titles were granted to loyal servants and dined with them in the King’s great chamber.

29th October - Procession to West Minster Hall.

30th October - Archbishop anointed and crowned Henry. He showed himself to the people then returned himself to the Tower for the banquet.

Henry and Elizabeth married on the 18th January 1486, uniting the houses of York and Lancaster.