Profile of the Day: Richard III

Richard III

On this day in 1483, Richard III was crowned the King of England.

Born on October 2, 1452, Richard was the last king of the House of York and the last of the Plantagenet dynasty.

When his elder brother, Edward IV, died in 1483, Edward’s 12-year-old son, Edward V, was to succeed to the throne and Richard named Lord Protector of the realm. However, before Edward’s coronation could take place, his father’s marriage to his mother was declared invalid, thus making their children illegitimate and Edward ineligible for the throne. Richard III was named king and crowned on July 6, 1483.

The infamous ruler imprisoned his nephews in the Tower of London, where they remained for the rest of their lives. According to rumors, Richard had his nephews executed to protect his hold on the crown. However, Richard’s reign would be a short one. He died on August 22, 1485 at the Battle of Bosworth Field at the age of 32. He was defeated by Henry Tudor, who would later become King Henry VII.

How are you related to Richard III? Explore his family tree to see your connection to the former King of England.
 

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