
He had transformed England into one of the most formidable military powers in Europe, but his royal bloodline survived into two houses, the House of Lancaster, and the House of York.In the year 1377, the then king of England and Lord of Ireland, Edward III, died of ill health.The reign of Henry VII, and his dynasty who followed him, begin the early modern period of English history. The Battle of Bosworth is considered one of the final moments of the medieval period in England.Though this marriage was most definitely symbolic, all accounts describe a rather happy marriage between the two. Henry married Edward IV’s daughter, Elizabeth of York, and joined together the Houses of York and Lancaster. The official coronation took place on 30 October, 1485.Some accounts state that he was crowned on the battlefield with Richard’s circlet. Henry Tudor became Henry VII and ended the Wars of the Roses.Many future kings would lead their men and fight in battle, but none would die.

Richard III died in battle and he was the last English king to do so.The Stanley army attacked Richard’s back flank and effectively changed the outcome of the Battle of Bosworth.


Henry, on the other hand, was relatively inexperienced since he lived in exile for most of his life.Richard was known for his military leadership and skill, having fought in many decisive battles during the Wars of the Roses, such as Barnet, Tewkesbury and Bosworth.

