Richard III
- Born:
- 2 October 1452, Fotheringhay Castle, Northamptonshire, England
- Died:
- 22 August 1485, near Market Bosworth, Leicestershire, England
- Nationality:
- English
- Profession:
- King of England (1483-1485)
Early Life and Education
- Richard was the youngest son of Richard Plantagenet, 3rd Duke of York, and Cecily Neville.
- Spent much of his early life under the guardianship of his cousin, Richard Neville, 16th Earl of Warwick.
- Received training in warfare and governance appropriate for a nobleman.
Career and Major Achievements
- Duke of Gloucester (created 1461).
- Loyal supporter of his brother, Edward IV, during the Wars of the Roses.
- Lord Protector of England upon the death of Edward IV in April 1483, ruling on behalf of his nephew, Edward V.
- Claimed the throne in June 1483 after Parliament declared Edward IV's marriage invalid and his children illegitimate.
- Reigned as King Richard III from 1483 to 1485.
- Implemented legal reforms, including the introduction of bail for accused persons.
Legacy and Impact
Richard III's reign was short but impactful. His controversial seizure of the throne and subsequent defeat at the Battle of Bosworth Field have made him one of the most debated figures in English history. The historical evidence concerning Richard III can be complex, and understanding his reign requires looking at various perspectives, including those offered by studying 'king richard iii biography images' and other primary and secondary sources.
Notable Works
While Richard III did not produce traditional works of art or literature, his actions and reign have inspired countless works, including:
- William Shakespeare's play, Richard III.
- Numerous historical studies and biographies.
Battles and Campaigns
Battle/Campaign | Year | Role |
---|---|---|
Battles of Barnet and Tewkesbury | 1471 | Military Commander |
Invasion of Scotland | 1482 | Commander of the English Army |
Battle of Bosworth Field | 1485 | King of England, Commander |