EDWARD IV., son of Richard, Duke of York, succeeded Henry VI. in 1461. He came to the throne in the midst of the fierce struggle between the Yorkists and Lancastrians, in which he greatly distinguished himself by his courage and military skill. He won a great victory over the Lancastrians at Northampton, in July, 1460, and a second at Mortimer's Cross, in February, 1461; after which he marched on London, and was proclaimed. A few weeks after his accession he de feated them a third time at Towton, in Yorkshire. The war continued with varying fortunes till 1464. In the same year he married Lady Elizabeth Grey, which so disgusted the Earl of War wick, commonly called the king-maker, that he joined the Lancastrian party, and the civil war was recommenced. Warwick defeated Edward's forces near Banbury in 1469. Soon afterward War wick fled to France, from whence he re turned with a supply of troops, and pro claimed Henry. Edward escaped beyond
sea, and Warwick released Henry from the Tower, and set him on the throne; but Edward returned with succor, and marched to London, where he took Henry prisoner. He shortly after won the bat tle of Barnet, in which Warwick fell. Another victory at Tewksbury secured to him the quiet possession of the throne. Preparations were made for war with France, and an expedition sent, which was, however, fruitless. War broke out also with Scotland, but nothing of im portance occurred. In 1478 Edward had his brother, the Duke of Clarence, con demned and put to death as a traitor. Clarence had married Isabel, daughter of the Earl of Warwick, and had taken part with him against the king. He died in 1483.