The triumph of the Yorkists, 1461–1471 common mistakes

Common mistakes

• Confusing the Yorkists and Lancastrians

  Students often mix up the key figures and events associated with the Yorkist and Lancastrian factions.

  Fix itEnsure to clearly differentiate between the two houses, their claims to the throne, and their key supporters.

• Confusing key figures

  Students often confuse the roles of key figures like Edward IV and Richard Neville.

  Fix itClarify the distinct roles: Edward IV was the king, while Richard Neville was a powerful noble known as 'the Kingmaker' who played a crucial role in his rise.

• Confusing the battles

  Students often mix up the outcomes and significance of Barnet and Tewkesbury.

  Fix itClearly distinguish the battles by their outcomes: Barnet led to Warwick's death, while Tewkesbury resulted in the death of Prince Edward.

• Overgeneralizing the impact on the aristocracy

  Assuming all noble families were equally affected by the baronial wars.

  Fix itAcknowledge that while many were weakened, some managed to retain or even enhance their power.