The Wars of the Roses (a dynastic struggle between the Houses of Lancaster and York) had divided England for decades, but they finally seemed to be over when the popular King Edward IV was on the throne. Most Lancastrian contenders were dead, exiled, or otherwise far from power, and the Yorkist faction was making an attempt at maintaining peace.
But then Edward died while his sons were not yet in their teens. Edward's brother Richard took custody of the boys, had their parent's marriage declared invalid (and the children illegitimate), and took the throne himself as Richard III. Whether he had acted out of ambition or to stabilize the government is debated; what happened to the boys is more hotly contested. In any case, the foundation of Richard's rule was shaky, and conditions were ripe for rebellion.
Get an introductory history of the Tudor Dynasty by visiting the portraits below in order. This is a work in progress! Check back soon for the next installment.
Images 1-12 of 12
 Henry VII |  Elizabeth of York |  Arthur Tudor |  Young Henry |
 Young Catherine of Aragon |  Young King Henry VIII |  Thomas Wolsey |  Catherine of Aragon |
 Anne Boleyn |  Henry in His Prime |  Pope Clement VII |  Resolute Catherine |
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