BattlefieldsBattle of Wakefield
Medieval

Battle of Wakefield

1460
West Yorkshire, England
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
West Yorkshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Yorkists (Richard Duke of York)
Forces
c.18,000 Lancastrians; York killed
VS
Victor
Lancastrians
Forces
c.5,000 Yorkists (Duke of York)
Outcome
Duke of York killed; Edmund killed
The Battle

History & Significance

The Battle of Wakefield was a decisive Lancastrian victory that marked a turning point in the early stages of the Wars of the Roses, demonstrating the military superiority of Queen Margaret's forces. The death of Richard, Duke of York, removed a major Yorkist leader and temporarily strengthened the Lancastrian position, though it also galvanized Yorkist resolve for revenge. This battle shifted momentum in the conflict and set the stage for the subsequent brutal campaigns that would define the civil war.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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