Did the Duke of Buckingham Really Hate King Richard III?

The complex relationship between the Duke of Buckingham and King Richard III has long intrigued historians. Many believe that their interactions were tense, with accusations of betrayal swirling around. However, a closer examination of historical records reveals a more nuanced story. Let’s delve into the facts.

The Early Days

Initially, there is no clear evidence that the Duke of Buckingham harbored hatred towards Richard III. Instead, Buckingham seems to have seen himself as a staunch supporter and even as a potential ‘Kingmaker’ for Richard. Richard III ascended to the throne in 1483, following the death of his nephew, Edward V. Buckingham, being a distant relative of royal lineage, viewed Richard with a mixture of respect and ambition.

Partnership and Cooperation

We should not overlook the significant level of cooperation between Richard III and the Duke of Buckingham. Buckingham played a crucial role in Richard’s rise to power, ensuring his legitimacy and stability. His support was instrumental in a period marked by political instability and uncertainty.

Until the summer of 1483, their collaboration was robust and productive. Buckingham’s involvement in Richard’s reign was not out of loyalty, but also out of a strategic calculation that aligning with the king would benefit his own ambitions. This period demonstrates that their relationship was more about mutual benefit and less about personal animosity.

Betrayal and Reprisal

However, the summer of 1483 marked a turning point. Buckingham's betrayal came as a shock. According to historical records, Buckingham conspired against Richard III, attempting to overthrow him and install the Duke of Richmond as the new king. This drastic shift in loyalty indicates a new level of ambition and personal gain.

Richard III took swift and severe action, capturing and executing Buckingham for his rebellion. Shockingly, Richard treated Buckingham more leniently and generously than Edward IV had done to his enemies. Richard’s treatment of Buckingham is often examined to understand his character and leadership style. He granted Buckingham substantial land and honors, indicating a different approach to tyranny compared to previous kings.

From Kingmaker to Betrayer

Historians often debate why Buckingham betrayed Richard. One plausible explanation is his desire to seize power for himself. Buckingham, with his ties to the House of Beaufort, had a legitimate claim to the throne. The failure of his initial attempt to make Richard III king made him see the potential in Richmond, a claimant he could use to climb the royal ladder.

In his last move, Buckingham gambled on the Duke of Richmond as his path to the throne. However, Richard outmaneuvered him, and Buckingham paid the ultimate price for his treachery.

Conclusion

While it's clear that the relationship between the Duke of Buckingham and King Richard III evolved from cooperation to a dramatic betrayal, it is not accurate to claim that Buckingham hated Richard. Buckingham’s actions can be better explained by his ambition rather than personal enmity.

The complexity of their relationship highlights the multifaceted nature of political alliances during the Tudor-Safeguard era. This nuanced understanding offers valuable insights into the dynamics of power and loyalty in fifteenth-century England.