The origins of conflict, 1450–1459 common mistakes

Common mistakes

• Overgeneralizing the causes of conflict

  Students often state that the Wars of the Roses were caused solely by the weakness of Henry VI without considering other factors.

  Fix itAcknowledge the interplay of various factors, including baronial factions, economic issues, and social discontent.

• Overgeneralizing the causes of conflict

  Students often state that the Wars of the Roses were caused solely by the rivalry between York and Lancaster without considering other factors.

  Fix itAcknowledge the complexity of the political landscape, including the roles of other nobles, economic issues, and the impact of Henry VI's mental health.

• Confusing the factions

  Students often mix up the Yorkists and Lancastrians, leading to incorrect interpretations of events.

  Fix itRemember that the Yorkists are represented by the white rose and were opposed to the Lancastrians, who are represented by the red rose.

• Overgeneralizing Margaret of Anjou's role

  Stating that she was solely responsible for the conflict without acknowledging the broader context of factional rivalries.

  Fix itRecognize that while Margaret was influential, the conflict was the result of multiple factors, including the ambitions of various nobles.