In 1464, the alliance between Warwick and King Edward IV soured. There was no question that Warwick's support helped Edward's cause. After his victory at Mortimer's Cross in 1461, Edward, Earl of March, the son of Richard from the House of York was proclaimed King Edward IV. All the while the 'Kingmaker' continued to fight on the side of the House of York. Richard Duke of York died at the Battle of Wakefield in 1460, so Edward, his son, continued the Yorkist claim to the throne.

Yet Warwick was so powerful during the Wars of the Roses that his nickname was 'Kingmaker,' because whomever he backed had the better chance of becoming king.ĭuring the Wars of the Roses, Warwick fought on the side of York. The only thing Warwick lacked was a direct bloodline to claim the throne. Warwick also had powerful friends outside of England's borders. Warwick was so wealthy and influential, that he could raise his own private army. One of the 'super barons' was Warwick. Warwick, whose name was Richard Neville was the 16th Earl of Warwick.

When studying the English kings of the House of York, you have to understand that at that time some barons or vassals were more powerful and richer than the king himself. English Kings: The House of York & the Wars of the Roses

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