St Albans 1455: The Anatomy of a Battle

The first battle of St Albans was a significant event in England's medieval history, with widespread street fighting, pillaging, and Henry VI almost killed. It was the genesis of the Wars of the Roses and heralded the beginning of an intense blood feud. This book answers questions about what happened, why Richard Duke of York and the Neville family rebelled against Henry VI, and the instigators of the conflict that caused the execution and deaths of a substantial portion of England's nobility.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 30 March 2023
Publisher: The History Press Ltd

For countless years, the initial clash of St Albans was mistakenly perceived as a mere "short scuffle in the street." However, the author of "Towton 1461: The Anatomy of a Battle," A.W. Boardman, has compelling evidence to prove otherwise. In fact, this battle stands as a remarkable and pivotal moment in the medieval history of England.

The streets of St Albans witnessed widespread chaos, with the town being ransacked in the aftermath. Henry VI, the king, came perilously close to death, and the political ramifications of the conflict posed significant challenges for both sides. To conceal the truth, parliament resorted to official propaganda.

St Albans, alongside other lesser-known battles of the early 1450s, played a crucial role in igniting the Wars of the Roses. It is undoubtedly the most well-documented encounter of that era. The battle marked the commencement of an intense blood feud that lasted for many generations and fueled the civil wars between York and Lancaster.

However, the question remains: What transpired on the streets of St Albans on May 22, 1455? What drove Richard Duke of York and the Neville family to rebel against Henry VI? And who were the individuals responsible for initiating the conflict that led to the execution and demise of a substantial portion of England's nobility by the end of the fifteenth century?

This book aims to provide answers to these critical inquiries. By employing a detailed and multidisciplinary approach, A.W. Boardman delves into the anatomy of a battle concealed beneath the streets and alleyways of the modern city of St Albans. Furthermore, it explores the broader issues surrounding the Wars of the Roses in northern England. The text is accompanied by a wealth of contemporary images, modern photographs, and specially drawn battle maps, offering a comprehensive examination of the sources, terrain, and military significance of the first battle of St Albans.

In this battle, the streets were stained red with the blood of valiant warriors. The clash of arms and the cries of battle echoed through the streets, leaving a lasting impact on the history of England. The battle of St Albans marked a turning point, setting the stage for the subsequent conflicts that would shape the country's destiny for generations to come.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803992785
Edition number: New ed