Stunning Facts About Elizabeth of York, The White Princess
There were lots of interesting figures in the Wars of the Roses. Richard III was the most ruthless, Margaret of Anjou was the most conniving, and Elizabeth of York? She was the most beautiful—but there's so much more to her than that.
From her precarious childhood to her life in captivity to her devastating end, Elizabeth of York's dark life story was one for the ages.
1. She Grew Up In Chaotic Times
Elizabeth of York was born at Westminster, the first child of King Edward IV and Queen Elizabeth Woodville. As England's eldest princess, Elizabeth should have had it made in the shade—but Elizabeth was not born in peaceful times.
Her father had only recently taken England's throne from the mad King Henry VI, and his crown was far from secure.
But that wasn't all. By nature of her parents' controversial marriage, Elizabeth of York was in danger from the moment she came screaming into the world.
2. Her Parents' Marriage Was Scandalous
Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville have one of history's greatest love stories. And what's even better than true love? Forbidden love.
When Edward became king, his advisors expected him to marry some foreign princess to ensure an alliance with a powerful nation. He then went and stabbed them in the back by marrying Woodville, an impoverished widow, in secret.
That alone was enough to enrage Edward's inner circle—but there may have been an even darker origin to this tale.
3. His Mother Made A Dark Threat
Elizabeth's father fell in love with her mother at first sight—but it might not have been mutual. Edward begged Woodville to become his mistress, but she refused. Then, he made a disturbing suggestion: If she wouldn't join his bed willingly, then he'd take her by force. But Elizabeth's mother was one tough woman. She threatened to slit her own throat if Edward attempted to touch her without her consent.
Though Elizabeth's parents went on to have a long and passionate marriage, that's definitely what I call "getting off on the wrong foot."
Regardless, Edward balked and the pair got married—though their recklessness would mean certain doom for their children, Elizabeth of York included.
4. She Couldn't Trust Anyone
Though underneath the surface tensions bubbled, Elizabeth of York's christening was a lavish and joyous affair. Her two grandmothers acted as witnesses, as well as a very special cousin: Richard Neville, AKA, the Kingmaker. As Edward's closest ally, Neville seemed the perfect man to bless the baby Elizabeth. On that joyous day, I wonder if Neville already knew that he'd betray her family so cruelly.
Even Elizabeth, a child as she was, would feel the sting of Neville's treachery before long.
