Cecily Neville: The First Queen, The Kingmaker

The First Queen (The Kingmaker Series Book 4)

by Gemma Perfect

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2829 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	216 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Cecily Neville, the Duchess of York, was a powerful and influential figure in the Wars of the Roses. Known as the 'Rose of Raby,' she played a pivotal role in shaping the course of English history. The daughter of Ralph Neville, 1st Earl of Westmoreland, and Joan Beaufort, Countess of Westmoreland, Cecily was born into a prominent and wealthy family.

Early Life and Marriage

Cecily was born on May 3, 1415, at Raby Castle in County Durham. She was the eldest of eight children and the only daughter. Her father was a powerful northern baron, and her mother was the daughter of John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, and his mistress Katherine Swynford. Cecily's parents arranged her marriage to Richard Plantagenet, 3rd Duke of York, in 1429. The marriage was a political alliance between the Neville and York families, and it brought Cecily into the heart of English politics.

The Wars of the Roses

The Wars of the Roses were a series of civil wars that took place in England between 1455 and 1485. The wars were fought between the House of Lancaster and the House of York, and they resulted in the deaths of thousands of people. Cecily's husband, Richard of York, claimed the throne of England in 1460, and the Wars of the Roses began. Cecily played an active role in the war, raising troops and providing financial support to her husband. She also became known for her courage and determination, and she was often referred to as the 'Rose of Raby.'

Mother of Kings

Cecily and Richard had 14 children, including two future kings of England: Edward IV and Richard III. Edward IV was crowned king in 1461, and he ruled for 22 years. Richard III was crowned king in 1483, but he was killed in battle two years later. Cecily's other children included George, Duke of Clarence; Edmund, Earl of Rutland; Elizabeth, Queen of England; Margaret, Duchess of Burgundy; and Anne, Duchess of Exeter.

Later Life

Cecily outlived her husband and all but two of her children. She spent her later years at Berkhamsted Castle in Hertfordshire. She died on May 31, 1495, at the age of 80. Cecily was buried at Fotheringhay Church in Northamptonshire. She is remembered as a powerful and influential woman who played a significant role in English history.

Legacy

Cecily Neville was a remarkable woman who left a lasting legacy on English history. She was a strong and courageous woman who played a vital role in the Wars of the Roses. Cecily was also a loving and devoted mother, and she raised her children to be strong and independent individuals. Her legacy lives on through her descendants, who include many of the most famous and influential people in English history.

The First Queen (The Kingmaker Series Book 4)

by Gemma Perfect

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2829 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	216 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE