5. Child Soldiers and Young Kings
The Wars of the Roses saw remarkable instances of youth in positions of power and command. Edward IV ascended to the throne in 1461 at the age of 18, following the death of his father, Richard, Duke of York. His brother, Richard, Duke of Gloucester, was appointed 1st Duke of Gloucester in 1461 at the age of 9. Additionally, Thomas Fitzalan, 10th or 17th Earl of Arundel, was appointed Knight of the Bath at the age of 11 in 1461 (allabouthistory.co.uk). These instances underscore the era’s ruthless expectations and the pivotal roles young individuals played during this tumultuous period.
