Study Guides

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils develop an understanding of the events of the period known as the Wars of the Roses. In doing so, they analyse the reasons for instability during this period, reflecting on what the Wars of the Roses can tell us about fifteenth-century England.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain why Edward IV's second reign was much more stable than his first.

Key Notes

• Edward's second reign was much more peaceful and England prospered.
• Lawlessness and conflict among the nobility subsided and Elizabeth Woodville was accepted as queen.
• Edward set up councils to rule lawless areas in the Welsh Marches and the North.
• The wool trade boomed and Edward forced the king of France to pay him money when he threatened invasion.
• Edward's second reign saw stability because he kept order and with Henry VI dead, he had the support of the nobility.

Vocabulary To Learn

• nobility: belonging to the class of rich landowners such as lords
• commoner: an ordinary person, not part of the royal family or nobility
• Council of the North: an organisation set up to improve control in the north
• Welsh Marches: an area along the border between England and Wales
• pension: in this lesson, this refers to money granted as a favour or reward

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Students might believe that the king could rule without the support ot the nobility.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

More Lessons In This Unit

• Edward IV's unstable first reign Study Guide
• Edward V and Richard III Study Guide
• Henry VI and Richard of York Study Guide
• The rule of Margaret of Anjou and the rise of Edward, Duke of York Study Guide
• What the Wars of the Roses tell us about England in the fifteenth century Study Guide