The Princes in the Tower

Succession Crisis

The death of Edward IV in 1483 set off a succession crisis that would alter the course of English history. His son, Edward V, was only twelve years old when he ascended to the throne, necessitating a regent to rule in his stead. Richard, Duke of Gloucester, was appointed as regent, but his intentions soon became suspect. He arrested Edward's retinue and took the young king to the Tower of London, a traditional pre-coronation residence, but the coronation was repeatedly delayed.

Richard then personally took Edward into London and took him to the Tower of London, which was the traditional location where monarchs stayed before they were coronated.

--- Gary Arndt

Richard's actions laid the groundwork for his eventual claim to the throne, casting a shadow over the fate of the young princes 1 2.

   

Coronation Manipulation

Richard's delaying tactics for Edward V's coronation were strategic, allowing him to strengthen his claim to the throne. He manipulated theological arguments, asserting that Edward V was illegitimate due to a pre-existing marriage contract of Edward IV. This dubious claim paved the way for Richard to be approached by nobles to take the throne himself.

A theologian named Ralph Shaw, who was the brother to the mayor of London, claimed that Edward was not the legitimate king because his birth was illegitimate.

--- Gary Arndt

On June 26, 1483, Richard was proclaimed Richard III, solidifying his power while the fate of the princes remained a mystery 2.