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What political systems emerged from the Wars of the Roses?

The Wars of the Roses led to the emergence of the Tudor dynasty and the centralisation of royal power in England.

The Wars of the Roses, a series of civil wars fought in England from 1455 to 1487, resulted in significant political changes. The most immediate outcome was the end of the Plantagenet dynasty and the rise of the Tudor dynasty, with Henry VII becoming the first Tudor king after defeating Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485. This marked the end of the medieval period and the beginning of the early modern period in England.

The Tudor dynasty, which lasted until 1603, brought about a centralisation of royal power. Henry VII, in particular, worked to reduce the power of the nobility, who had been a significant source of instability during the Wars of the Roses. He did this through a variety of means, including financial penalties, bonds and recognisances, which were legal agreements that forced nobles to behave in certain ways. This helped to ensure their loyalty and reduce the likelihood of future rebellions.

Henry VII also strengthened the role of Parliament and used it to legitimise his rule. He passed laws that confirmed his right to the throne and used Parliament to pass financial legislation, which helped to increase his income and reduce his dependence on the nobility. This increased the power of the monarchy and helped to establish a more stable political system.

Furthermore, the Wars of the Roses led to the development of a more professionalised bureaucracy. Henry VII expanded the role of the royal council and established new government departments, such as the Court of Star Chamber, which dealt with cases of public disorder and corruption. He also increased the use of Justices of the Peace, who were appointed to maintain law and order in the counties. These changes helped to centralise power and increase the efficiency of the government.

In conclusion, the Wars of the Roses had a profound impact on the political landscape of England. They led to the rise of the Tudor dynasty and a centralisation of royal power, which helped to create a more stable and efficient political system.

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