In the mid-15th century great magnates with private armies dominated the English countryside. Lawlessness was rife and taxation burdensome. Henry VI experienced spells of madness and was dominated by his queen, Margaret of Anjou. In 1453, when Henry lapsed into insanity, a powerful baronial clique installed Richard, duke of York, as protector of the realm. Henry recovered in 1455, reestablishing the authority of Margaret’s party. York took up arms, starting the Wars of the Roses.
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