The 15th-century dynastic struggle between two rival branches of the Royal House of Plantagenet reached a definitive conclusion that altered the course of British history. Which of the following accurately describes the outcome of the Battle of Bosworth Field and its impact on the transition away from the Middle Ages?
- Henry Tudor, representing the House of Lancaster, defeated Richard III of the House of York, marking the end of the Middle Ages and the beginning of the Tudor dynasty.Answer
- BRichard III, representing the House of Lancaster, was defeated by the Yorkist claimant, a victory that historians use to mark the definitive start of the Middle Ages in England.
- CThe House of York achieved a final victory at Bosworth Field, allowing the new king to merge the White Rose of Lancaster with the Red Rose of York to create the Tudor Rose.
- DThe conflict ended in a negotiated settlement that saw the House of Lancaster and the House of York rotate the monarchy, effectively extending the Middle Ages for another century.
Answer
The correct answer is that Henry Tudor, from the House of Lancaster, defeated Richard III of the House of York, which ended the Middle Ages and began the Tudor dynasty.
The victory of Henry Tudor at the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485 is the event that historians traditionally cite as the end of the Middle Ages. As a member of the House of Lancaster, his victory over the Yorkist King Richard III led to his coronation as Henry VII and the founding of the Tudor dynasty, which unified the warring factions.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
The resolution of the Wars of the Roses through the Battle of Bosworth Field.