History Calling: Cecily Neville, Duchess of York

Introduction

• Focus on Cecily Neville, Duchess of York
• Survived the Wars of the Roses
• Mother of Kings Edward IV and Richard III
• Part of the Plantagenet family

Background and Early Life

• Born on May 3, 1415
• Possibly at Raby Castle
• Part of a large, blended family
  • Mother: Joan Beaufort (previously married)
  • Father: Ralph Neville, Earl of Westmoreland
• Little known about her childhood
• Married to Richard, Duke of York at age 9

Family Connections

• Mother: Joan, daughter of John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and Catherine Swynford
• John of Gaunt: Third son of Edward III
• Connection to Henry IV and V

Marriage and Children

• Married Richard, Duke of York in 1423
• Children: Edward IV, Edmund, Elizabeth, Margaret, George, Richard III, and others
• Large family, but many died young

Political Context

• Wars of the Roses: Major conflict influencing Cecily's life
• Richard's claim to the throne due to descent from Edward III

Key Events and Challenges

• Richard's governance in France and Ireland
• Strain in marriage due to separations
• Political upheaval and battles (St. Albans, Ludford Bridge)
• Richard's death at the Battle of Wakefield (December 1460)
• Cecily's capture and temporary loss of estates
• Reunited with son, Edward, after Yorkist victory in 1460

Personal and Political Influence

• Attempted to influence Henry VI through correspondence
• Managed family estates in Richard's absence

Legacy and Reflection

• Cecily's position as a mother and political figure
• Her resilience through personal and political turmoil
• Complex legacy within the Wars of the Roses

Conclusion

• Richard's failed kingship attempt

• Cecily's continued influence despite setbacks

• Video series continues with more on the women of the Wars of the Roses

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• Additional Resources: Books and documentaries on Cecily Neville's life available in the description