The Wars of the Roses offers a new and authoritative history of the military campaigns of the Wars of the Roses. It draws upon decades of archival research and recent archaeological findings to provide a fresh perspective on the civil wars of the mid-fifteenth century, from the first Battle of St Albans to Edward IV’s recovery of the throne in 1471. This first of three volumes explores the initial phase of the war, from 1455 to the Yorkist seizure of the throne in March 1461. It examines the major battles of Northampton, St Albans, and the decisive clash at Towton, as well as lesser-known campaigns in Ireland and Calais. Based on the author’s archival research conducted over four decades, it presents fresh interpretations of the battles, particularly Wakefield and Towton, while incorporating the latest archaeological evidence to reshape our understanding of the nature of warfare during this period. Each battle and campaign is reconstructed in detail, examining the role played by important individuals. The Wars of the Roses Volume 1 shows how decisions and the course of battle were determined by ideas of chivalry and constitutional principle, as well as deception and individual acts of bravery and skill.
