History of Warfare Summary 21 - England's Wars of the Roses 7: The Battle of Bosworth and Henry VII

Henry Tudor was distantly related to the House of Lancaster, but his claim to the throne was not strong. His assertion was primarily based on his maternal lineage and the political support of the Lancastrian faction. After securing support from France, he landed in England in August 1485. At the time, Richard III sought to block Henry's advance by mobilizing nobles from the north and midlands. The two sides clashed on August 22nd on Bosworth Field. Although Richard's forces had an advantage in troops and equipment early in the battle, the attitudes of some nobles during the engagement proved decisive. Richard attempted to attack Henry directly but was killed in action. Henry Tudor emerged victorious, was crowned Henry VII, and established the Tudor dynasty. The Battle of Bosworth is one of the most famous battles of the Wars of the Roses, symbolizing the end of the House of York and the beginning of a new royal line. However, even after the battle, not all nobles immediately pledged their loyalty. Henry VII had to consolidate his royal power and control potential rivals.