Discuss the significance of the Battle of Wakefield in 1460.

The Battle of Wakefield in 1460 was significant as it marked a turning point in the Wars of the Roses, leading to the temporary downfall of the Yorkist cause.

The Battle of Wakefield was a major conflict in the Wars of the Roses, a series of civil wars in England fought between the houses of York and Lancaster for control of the English throne. The battle took place on 30th December 1460 near Wakefield, in West Yorkshire. The Yorkist forces, led by Richard, Duke of York, were defeated by the Lancastrians under the command of Queen Margaret of Anjou. The Duke of York was killed in the battle, marking a significant setback for the Yorkist cause.

The battle was significant for several reasons. Firstly, it marked a turning point in the Wars of the Roses. Prior to the Battle of Wakefield, the Yorkists had been gaining ground, with the Act of Accord in October 1460 recognising the Duke of York as Henry VI's heir to the throne. However, the defeat at Wakefield and the death of the Duke of York led to a temporary downfall of the Yorkist cause.

Secondly, the Battle of Wakefield was significant because it led to a change in leadership for the Yorkists. With the death of the Duke of York, his son Edward, Earl of March, took over the leadership of the Yorkist faction. Edward proved to be a more successful leader than his father, eventually becoming King Edward IV in March 1461 after a series of Yorkist victories.

Finally, the Battle of Wakefield was significant because of its brutality. The Lancastrians not only killed the Duke of York but also his second son Edmund, Earl of Rutland, and Richard Neville, Earl of Salisbury. This level of violence was unusual even for the Wars of the Roses and demonstrated the deep-seated animosity between the two factions.

In conclusion, the Battle of Wakefield was a significant event in the Wars of the Roses. It marked a turning point in the conflict, leading to the temporary downfall of the Yorkist cause and a change in leadership for the Yorkists. The battle also stood out for its brutality, reflecting the deep-seated animosity between the Yorkists and Lancastrians.