What sparked the wars?
Clashes between the Lancastrians and Yorkists had previously occurred but the very first open fight occurred in 1455 at, what is now called, the First Battle of St Albans. At the time, Henry VI was ruler of England. He was a Lancastrian and the Lancastrian faction held great power during this time. However, Henry VI was thought to be extremely inexperienced and did not have the capabilities to rule a nation. During his time, many called him average as he was often described as neither intelligent nor experienced. To make matters worse, he started displaying signs of mental illness and was rendered incapable of ruling. Thus his wife and Queen Consort, Margaret of Anjou, ruled in his name. Margaret was beautiful, talented and courageous. Many described her to be like a man as she possessed a strong personality and was influential. During her reign, she embarrassed the York name and alienated the York descendants and supporters at numerous events and occasions. As a result, The Wars of the Roses began.