Page:History of the Kings & Queens of England.pdf/17

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EDWARD IV.

Born 1441. Began to Reign March 5, 1461. Died April 9, 1482. Reigned 22 Years.

Son of Richard, Duke of York, whose father had been killed in battle while disputing the crown with Henry VI., appeared in the field at his father's death, and after a series of battles had been fought, in which torrents of blood had been shed, was placed on the throne. Edward was of an elegant appearance, and pleasing address : possessing firmness, courage and sagacity; but cruel, revengeful, lewd, and given to adultery. Among the number of his mistresses was one Jane Shore, remarkable for her beauty. She was married to a rich goldsmith in London, where Edward went in disguise, saw her, and through Lord Hastings induced her to leave her husband. Edward, while making preparations to invade France, was taken ill of a disease, of which he died.

Eminent men in this reign :-William Caxton, the first printer in England; Earl of Warwick, called the king-maker: Tiptoft, Earl of Worcester,