The Battle of Towton

Introduction

• Britain's bloodiest battle occurred on Palm Sunday, 1461, near Towton, Yorkshire.
• Up to 60,000 men fought, with 28,000 recorded dead by day's end.
• A pivotal event in the Wars of the Roses, determining the future of the English kingdom.
• Five centuries of myth and legend surround the truth of the battle.

Discovery of the Mass Grave

• In 1996, human remains were discovered at Towton Hall.
• Archaeologists found a mass grave with 37 bodies, revealing brutal deaths.
• Bone analysis showed men aged 16-50, likely stripped and killed by massive head wounds.
• The site provided insights into medieval warfare, challenging romantic views with harsh realities.

Context of the Wars of the Roses

• A struggle for the English crown between the Yorkists (White Rose) and Lancastrians (Red Rose).
• The reigning king, Henry VI, was a Lancastrian; Edward, Earl of March, led the Yorkists.
• The battle was a brutal, vengeful fight for power.

Archaeological Methodology

• Infrared surveying recorded bone positions precisely.
• Used to reconstruct the skeletons, revealing their burial in tightly packed layers.
• The analysis provided details on the physique and previous injuries of the soldiers.

Insights from Bone Analysis

• Bodies showed signs of strenuous lifestyles; some indicated archery practice.
• The presence of archers was significant, given the historical importance of English bowmen.
• The English archers were formidable, having lineage from campaigns like Agincourt.

The Battle's Tactics

• The Yorkists benefitted from weather conditions with the wind in their favor.
• The Lancastrians held high ground but were disadvantaged by snow-driven winds.
• The battle involved intense hand-to-hand combat, lasting ten hours.

Forensic and Anthropological Findings

• Many skeletons showed healed wounds, indicating experienced soldiers.
• Some skeletons had unusual bone growth patterns, suggesting a life-long archery practice.
• Number 16 was a standout skeleton with a significant history of healed wounds.

Evidence of Brutality and Execution

• The dead showed signs of execution-style killings, lacking traditional battlefield protection like helmets.
• The presence of defense wounds suggested the dead had fought back.
• Finds of mutilation and torture raised questions about the nature of the battle's end.

The Aftermath and Historical Reflection

• The battle did not end the Wars of the Roses; hostilities continued for 20 more years.
• The grim discoveries highlight the human cost and challenge the idea of medieval chivalry.
• Number 16, a battle-hardened veteran, symbolizes the harsh reality of medieval warfare.

Conclusion

• The findings at Towton provide a tangible connection to medieval history and warfare.
• They serve as a reminder of the human stories behind historical conflicts and the real impact of war on individuals.