Richard II is widely believed to have died of starvation around February 14, 1400, while imprisoned by the new king, Henry IV. His death followed a period of political turmoil that led to him losing the support of many powerful lords and landowners, ultimately resulting in his forced abdication.
The Circumstances of Richard II's Death
Richard II's demise by starvation was a direct consequence of his loss of power and subsequent imprisonment. After ruling England for over two decades, he faced growing opposition from powerful nobles who became disillusioned with his reign.
Key Events Leading to Richard II's Imprisonment and Death:
- Loss of Support: Richard II gradually alienated many significant lords and landowners through his governance and policies.
- Abdication: As he lost critical support, Richard II was compelled to relinquish his crown, paving the way for his cousin, Henry Bolingbroke (who became Henry IV), to ascend to the throne.
- Imprisonment: Following his abdication, Richard II was imprisoned by Henry IV. It was during this incarceration that he is thought to have starved to death.
| Event | Approximate Timeframe | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Loss of Noble Support | Late 1390s | Weakened Richard II's position and led to rebellion. |
| Forced Abdication | September 1399 | Richard II gave up his crown, allowing Henry IV to become king. |
| Imprisonment | Late 1399 - Early 1400 | Held captive by Henry IV, leading to the circumstances of his death. |
| Death by Starvation | February 14, 1400 | The believed cause and date of his demise while in captivity. |
The precise details surrounding Richard II's death have been a subject of historical debate, but the consensus points to starvation while under the custody of his successor. This method of death, whether forced or self-imposed (such as a hunger strike), served to eliminate a potential rival to the newly established Lancastrian monarchy under Henry IV.
