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Great Britain -- History -- Wars of the Roses, 1455-1485 Books

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Richard Brooke

Visits to Fields of Battle, in England, of the Fifteenth Century
 to which are added, some miscellaneous tracts and papers upon archæological subjects

"Visits to Fields of Battle, in England, of the Fifteenth Century" by Richard Brooke is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This work details a series of significant battles that occurred in England during the fifteenth century, a tumultuous period marked by civil strife, particularly the Wars of the Roses between the Houses of York and Lancaster. The book combines historical anecdotes with archaeological observations, as the author recounts his visits to various battlefields and examines their historical contexts and consequences. The opening of the book presents a preface in which Brooke sets the scene for the violent conflicts that characterized England during the fifteenth century, particularly focusing on the Wars of the Roses. He discusses notable battles, the political motivations behind the conflicts, and the tragic loss of life that resulted from these power struggles. In the beginning chapters, he specifically describes his visits to the battlefield of Shrewsbury, providing detailed historical accounts of the battle, its key players, and the aftermath. He emphasizes the importance of understanding these historic events to gain insight into England’s rich and turbulent past, while also noting the way these battles shaped the modern landscape of the country.

W. H. Hamilton (William Henry Hamilton) Rogers

The Strife of the Roses and Days of the Tudors in the West

"The Strife of the Roses and Days of the Tudors in the West" by W. H. Hamilton Rogers is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work delves into English history during the tumultuous times of the Wars of the Roses and the Tudor period, focusing specifically on notable figures and events from the west of England. It explores the lives of various noble families, such as the Willoughbys, Paveleys, and Cheneys, highlighting their contributions and struggles during this significant era. The opening of the book introduces the town of Westbury and sets the stage for a journey through history, referencing the industrial backdrop of the late 19th century while simultaneously reflecting on the grandeur of its past. The narrator seeks to uncover the legacy of Robert Willoughby, the first Baron Willoughby de Broke, as he traces the historical significance of Brooke Hall and its former occupants. Through dialogue with a local informant, the narrator learns about the modern (yet ancient) landscapes intertwined with the noble lineage's rich history, suggesting an exploration of both physical memorials and the lingering impact of the past on contemporary memories.

John G. (John George) Edgar

The Wars of the Roses; or, Stories of the Struggle of York and Lancaster

"The Wars of the Roses; or, Stories of the Struggle of York and Lancaster" by J. G. Edgar is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work focuses on the tumultuous period of the Wars of the Roses, a series of dynastic conflicts between the rival houses of York and Lancaster in England. The narrative aims to engage young readers, particularly boys, and brings to life the events and key figures of a critical time in English history, such as Richard Plantagenet, the Duke of York, and Margaret of Anjou. The beginning of the book sets the stage for the conflict by detailing the birth of Henry VI in 1421 and the subsequent struggles for power that arose from his reign. The text describes the notable figures such as the Duke of York and the political machinations of Margaret of Anjou, illustrating the familial disputes and ambitions that ultimately lead to civil unrest. As tensions rise, the narrative introduces the various factions and their leaders, along with hints of upcoming battles and the resulting chaos that will engulf England during this historical period.

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