The brief reign of Edward V began on 9 April 1483 following the sudden death of his father, King Edward IV. As the eldest son of Elizabeth Woodville, he was declared Prince of Wales at age one and later established at Ludlow Castle to govern the Welsh Marches. His transition to the throne remains a period of intense political instability.
Early Education and Status
Born on 2 November 1470 at Cheyneygates in Westminster, the prince spent his formative years under the guidance of his uncle, Anthony Woodville, 2nd Earl Rivers. His father enforced a rigorous schedule that prioritised virtuous study, religious observance, and athletic training. By 1480, plans were secured for a future political marriage to Anne, the daughter of Francis II, Duke of Brittany, intended to solidify international alliances.
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Upon receiving news of his father's passing while at Ludlow, the twelve-year-old monarch began his journey toward London. His uncle, Richard, Duke of Gloucester, met the royal party in Stony Stratford before ordering the arrest of the king's companions, including Earl Rivers and Richard Grey. By 19 May 1483, the young king was installed in the Tower of London, where his younger brother, Richard of Shrewsbury, joined him shortly thereafter.
Deposition and Disappearance
Political control shifted rapidly as the coronation was repeatedly delayed. On 22 June, a sermon by Ralph Shaa alleged the illegitimacy of Edward IV’s marriage to Elizabeth Woodville, citing a prior contract with Lady Eleanor Butler. Consequently, an assembly of Lords and Commons declared Richard of Gloucester the lawful monarch on 25 June 1483. Following this transition, the two princes were moved to the inner apartments of the Tower and eventually vanished from public record, with their fates remaining officially unconfirmed.
Fast facts
- Born: 2 November 1470, Westminster
- Died: Presumably July 1483, Tower of London
- Reign: 9 April 1483 to 25 June 1483
- Father: King Edward IV
- Mother: Elizabeth Woodville
- Award: Knight of the Garter, 1475
- Religion: Catholicism
Questions readers ask
Did Edward V ever receive a formal coronation?
No, his reign concluded with his deposition before the coronation ceremony could take place.
What was the Titulus Regius?
It was an act of Parliament that legitimised the reign of Richard III by declaring the children of Edward IV illegitimate.
