Originally published on 7th December 2024
Modern historical documentaries often present negative portrayals of their subjects, and sometimes the term "smoking gun" is used as a euphemism for a moment of revelation, even when there is a lack of direct evidence. This phrase refers to circumstantial evidence rather than concrete proof. However, there is one source that initially generates enthusiasm yet ultimately leaves its audience disillusioned upon realizing it contains only pre-existing information. This captures my view of the British Channel 5 documentary, "The Princes In The Tower: A Damning Discovery."
I am well aware of the tension that exists between media narratives and scholarly research, a topic I frequently discuss on my secondary YouTube channel, History Inside A Nutshell, alongside a colleague who has extensively researched ocean liners. Despite this, I remain sceptical about certain types of research. Through my research endeavours, I have learned the importance of meticulous observation of evidence, thorough exploration of findings, and the necessity of exercising patience. While media may not be the most reliable source for drawing definitive conclusions, it can serve as a valuable catalyst for deeper inquiry.
After watching "A Damning Discovery," I decided to approach it critically. In my opinion, documentaries about the Princes in the Tower often ignite political or social debates, as various individuals cling to what they perceive as compelling evidence. Nevertheless, I committed myself to a thorough exploration of the documentary, taking notes to identify what it might have overlooked.
Before proceeding with my review, I want to clarify that although I deeply respect differing opinions, this critique is based on my perspective and research. In addition to watching the documentary, I have consulted a variety of sources and viewpoints from historians and enthusiasts, including Matthew Lewis, Dan Jones, John Ashdown-Hill, and R.L. Weston of History Calling. Furthermore, I have examined research by Professor Tim Thornton of the University of Huddersfield, who was featured in the documentary, and I plan to revisit the report from the 1933 examination. If you would like to access Professor Thornton's articles, I will provide links in the references section. This review will be presented in three parts, with this section serving as the first. Now, let us proceed with the analysis.
Case 1: What Is the Documentary About?
To comprehend the process at hand, a synopsis of the documentary is essential. "A Daming Discovery," released in December 2024, aired on the British television channel Channel 5. This documentary features historian Tracy Borman and actor Jason Watkins, who collaborate to investigate one of Britain's most renowned cold cases: the disappearances of Edward V and Richard of Shrewsbury, the Duke of York. Their journey encompasses significant locations within the City of London, where they analyze documents that may contain vital clues regarding the boys' fates.
While the summary of the documentary appears engaging, it is pertinent to note that this case is revisited annually on British television. For instance, Channel 4 recently presented a documentary featuring Philippa Langley and British barrister Rob Rinder, titled "The Princes In The Tower: The New Evidence." Although Langley, Rinder, Borman, and Watkins all explore the potential destinies of the boys, each documentary offers a distinct perspective. Langley and Rinder subscribe to the belief that the boys may have survived their ordeal in the Tower of London but met different ends. Conversely, Borman and Watkins conclude that the boys were likely murdered during the reign of Richard III, proposing that Sir James Tyrrell was responsible, rather than implicating Richard III directly. This discourse has effectively divided supporters into two factions: those who favour Richardian interpretations and those who adhere to the sources attributed to Sir Thomas More. Such debates are not novel; audiences have encountered similar viewpoints previously, often resulting in inconclusive outcomes.
The inevitability of ongoing debates and theories remains, irrespective of the evidence presented in the National Archives in the United Kingdom or the Saxon State Archives in Germany. Nevertheless, individuals are inclined to share their hypotheses, driven by their instincts about what they believe, following extensive research.
I shall refrain from elaborating further on this matter for now; however, I perceive this case study as one that I have encountered previously. It certainly will not be the last, as I anticipate future documentaries on this subject.
Case 2: Recap of the Cold Case: Education of Edward and Richard
This does not necessitate elaboration. Rather than recounting the narrative, I will concentrate on the findings presented in the documentary. If you would like to know the full context of the story, click here for the article or on the new YouTube Channel for more.
I will examine the resources on Edward V and Richard of Shrewsbury, which were highlighted in the documentary, along with the brief references I have previously mentioned in articles on the website. I will first look into the education of Edward V. I have mentioned this on the profile of Edward V. but I will include the various resources from the documentary and an account in John Ashdown-Hill's book, "The Mythology of the 'Princes in The Tower".
In a presentation marked by commendable enthusiasm, historian Matthew Lewis provides a comprehensive document that chronicles the life and lessons of Edward IV at Ludlow Castle, and the accompanying footage was recorded at that very location. This document was originally drafted by Edward IV’s father and contains directives for his son’s council and household members regarding the daily routine that Edward should follow.
Additionally, John Ashdown-Hill references this in his scholarly work, wherein he discusses an instruction directed to Anthony Woodville, Earl Rivers—Edward's maternal uncle—about the upbringing of the young prince:
'... to rise each morning '... at a convenient hour, according to his age', and immediately take part in morning prayer in his chamber. Then, as soon as he was dressed he was to go to Mass in the chapel. Only after mass could the boy have his breakfast. In the late afternoon every day, he was then required to attend vespers [Evensong/Compline] before having his supper and going to bed at eight o'clock'.
Edward V resided in Ludlow Castle from the age of three. This aspect is emphasized in Nicholas Orme's thesis, titled "The Education of Edward V." According to Orme, on September 27, 1473, King Edward IV formulated a strategic plan for the education and upbringing of his son. This plan delineated the individuals designated to serve as Edward's governor and tutor, specifically appointing his maternal uncle, Anthony Woodville, Lord Rivers, to this vital role. Furthermore, John Alcock, the Bishop of Rochester, was appointed as an additional tutor and president of the young king's council.
In contrast, John Ashdown-Hill contends that these plans and appointments were made in either February 1472 or 1473. He offers comprehensive details regarding the council members selected by Edward IV for his son’s education. A total of thirty-five members were appointed, including Rivers, Elizabeth Woodville, George, Duke of Clarence, Richard, Duke of Gloucester, and William Hastings, who collectively served as tutors and councillors until Edward V reached the age of fourteen. Further elaboration on Hastings and Richard, Duke of Gloucester, will follow.
In a documentary, Lewis remarks on the stringent nature of Edward V’s education and the oversight of his household. He references a quote that illustrates how Edward IV instructed the servants and council members to conduct themselves to ensure Edward V's safety and proper behaviour:
"We will that no person be customable to swearer, brawler, backbiter, common hazarder and use words of ribaldry in the presence of our said son".
Edward IV provided detailed instructions concerning the upbringing of his son, highlighting the importance of avoiding any perceived threats or direct eye contact. He warned that any failures in this respect could lead to the dismissal of servants. Watskins posits that the phrase "helicopter parenting" aptly describes the educational methodology that Edward IV considered essential for his son.
During his time in Ludlow, one of Edward IV's primary pedagogical emphases was religion, as he believed that a rigorously religious setting would foster a deep commitment to Catholicism in his son. In addition to his religious education, Edward received instruction in literature and languages. Historian Dan Jones, in "The Hollow Crown," notes that Edward and Rivers devoted considerable time to pursuits involving horses, dogs, and fencing, a claim corroborated by Dominic Mancini, who, although he did not meet the young king, referenced such activities.
While the documentary does not explore the educational experiences of Richard of Shrewsbury, it highlights a marked contrast to that of Edward V. Dr. David Starkey indicates that Richard was raised in the Royal Nursery in London alongside his mother and sisters. An account from the Portuguese Ambassador Rui de Sousa suggests that Richard exhibited proficiency in archery and demonstrated skill in handling "sticks" and a two-handed sword. Dr Starkey also refers to a foreign visitor who observed Richard engaging in play with his sisters and the Queen Consort, describing him as "a very noble little boy" and noting his enjoyable singing performances in the company of his mother and one of his sisters.
Although the educational experiences of the two princes differed markedly, it is reasonable to assert that Edward V's education is the most comprehensively documented of the two.
Case 3a: Recap of the Cold Case: Movements of Edward V
In the following analysis, I will examine the events that transpired between April and July 1483. This inquiry will be divided into distinct sections, beginning with a focus on Edward V, while discussions regarding Richard will be reserved for a subsequent section. The forthcoming blog post will be dedicated to the circumstances of the boys in the Tower, followed by a conclusion to the documentary. I have a substantial amount of commentary on this period, much of which is critical, primarily due to the documentary's oversight of several significant points.
Edward V became aware of his father’s demise on April 12, 1483, while at Ludlow Castle. He and his retinue remained there until St. George's Day. During this interval, Elizabeth Woodville, the dowager queen, allegedly expedited arrangements for her son’s immediate coronation. However, she failed to inform Richard, Duke of Gloucester, who had been appointed as Lord Protector for the young king, regarding Edward IV's death. It appears that Richard received this critical information through William, Lord Hastings—notably the 1st Baron of Hastings—who played a vital role in Edward V's education. This connection illustrates a significant point that was overlooked in "A Damning Discovery," which I uncovered during my research for this blog post.
I encountered an article on the Edward V 1483 website authored by Pamela Jean Horter-Moore, titled "The Hastings Hours: A National Treasure." In her article, Horter-Moore elucidates that Hastings was not only the Chamberlain of the Exchequer and Lieutenant of Calais for Edward IV but also a member of Edward V’s council. He was instrumental in managing the affairs of Edward V while the young king still held the title of Prince of Wales, alongside Gloucester and Rivers.
Hastings maintained a close relationship with Edward's paternal family, suggesting a strong bond with the young king during his tenure as Prince of Wales. This connection is further illustrated by Horter-Moore’s reference to a hand-illustrated prayer book known as the Hastings Hours. An edition of this book is believed to reside in the British Library, following its donation by Mrs. F.W.M. Perrins in 1968. The book was commissioned by Hastings in Flanders; however, Horter-Moore argues that the construction of the book:
... might have been done with the assistance of Margaret of York, the Duchess of Burgundy, sister of Edward IV who visited England in 1480.
The exquisitely crafted book served as a symbol of love, warmth, support, and protection. In his work, "The Religious Life of Richard III," Jonathan Hughes characterizes the prayer book as follows:
“..a number of the illustrations allude, in a way that would be appealing to a child, to Prince Edward’s world. The portrait of St. Christopher bearing on his shoulders the Christ child who is pulling the saint’s hair as he crosses a high river, alludes to the joke of Edward IV’s jester about the rivers being so high one can scarce escape through them In this context it is possible to see Christ as Prince Edward and St. Christopher as his guardian and friend Hastings or Anthony. Earl Rivers. (It is ironic that Cicely Neville left a relic of St. Christopher to Prince Edward’s mother Elizabeth Woodville.) The other illustrations explain the proverbs contained in Christine de Pisan’s book translated by Anthony Woodville in 1477 and presented at the court of Edward IV. They include, besides more punning references to the Woodvilles, illustrations condemning extreme largesse, warnings about the wheels of fate, exhortations to great self-control and advice on the rearing of children.”
Hughes posits that the book may have been presented to Edward V in the spring or early summer of 1483. In contrast, other sources, such as Horter-Moore, propose that the date could have been as early as 1480. One reason to consider the summer of 1483 is that if the book had been presented shortly before the death of Edward IV, it might have served as a symbol of trust for Edward V and other members of the royal family.
Following the death of Edward IV, Hastings promptly departed from London to notify Richard, Duke of Gloucester, at Middleham Castle about his brother's demise and his nephew's impending succession.
In an account referenced in "The Usurpation of Richard III" [written by Mancini], Borman discusses Hastings in "A Damned Discovery."
"... he advised the Duke to hasten to the capital with a strong force, and avenge the insult done him by his enemies".
This analysis indicates that the Duke of Gloucester should exercise caution as the Woodville family approaches the capital, to reach the young king before Edward V arrives in London. It is reported that Hastings did not maintain a favourable relationship with the Woodville family. According to Ashdown-Hill, shortly after the death of Edward IV, Hastings expressed his discontent regarding Rivers assuming control of the Royal entourage. However, Hastings's behaviours before his execution on June 13th were perceived as enigmatic by the Duke of Gloucester. He engaged in clandestine meetings with two individuals, Bishop John Morton of Ely and Thomas Rotherham, the Archbishop of York, at their respective residences. They were opposed to the notion of displacing Edward V from the throne. Mancini asserts that these discussions appeared to centre around orchestrating a campaign to depose the Duke as Lord Protector, a plot that ultimately culminated in Hastings's swift execution.
When the Duke of Gloucester and Hastings endeavoured to locate the Royal entourage, Edward V and his household departed Ludlow on April 24th, with a coronation scheduled for May 4th. During their journey, Gloucester encountered Thomas Grey, Rivers, Thomas Vaughan, and Edward V's paternal uncle, Richard, the Duke of Gloucester, in Northampton. Regrettably, Gloucester, in conjunction with Henry Stafford, the 2nd Duke of Buckingham, apprehended Grey, Rivers, and Vaughan.
Upon learning of the arrests of Grey, Vaughan, and Rivers from Gloucester and Buckingham at Stoney Stratford, Edward V advocated for their release. Despite Edward’s objections, he continued his journey to London alongside Buckingham and Gloucester, accompanied by the royal entourage. They collectively arrived in London on May 4th, the date initially designated by the Woodvilles for the coronation.
In the documentary, Borman references only two significant dates: one on the event scheduled for May 4th and the other for June 22nd. This assertion is inaccurate. The coronation date had been postponed multiple times due to developing circumstances surrounding the Tower. Ultimately, June 22nd became the definitive date, coinciding with a planned session to inaugurate Parliament for Edward V's first government on June 24th.
Furthermore, Borman omits critical occurrences that transpired before the arrival at the Tower of London, failing to elucidate the events leading up to that moment. The presentation of these occurrences suggests that the source material primarily draws from Shakespeare's play "Richard III," which the documentary appears to accept uncritically. In actuality, Richard, the Duke of Gloucester, summoned both the magnates and citizens to affirm their allegiance to Edward as the new king at Hornsby Park. The entourage was received by the Mayor of London and the Aldermen before a banquet was held in honour of Edward. It is believed that Edward and his entourage proceeded into the core of the capital following their stay at Hornsby Park. Phillipa Langley notes that the group subsequently moved to the Bishop of London’s Palace in Old St Paul’s Cathedral, where Edward had initially been accommodated before the council decided to transfer the King to the Tower of London for more spacious lodgings.
This matter is of considerable significance as Edward V was not initially placed under armed guard. Rather, he was in the company of individuals with whom he was familiar, including an uncle with whom he had ambivalent feelings. Had Edward been under armed guard, it would have suggested a markedly different scenario than one in which he was simply a prisoner.
It was not until May 19 that Edward arrived at the Tower of London. Edward's council became increasingly wary of the Royal Family, primarily driven by concerns for the young king's safety, particularly concerning Gloucester, Edward’s paternal uncle and Lord Protector. By mid-summer, tensions had escalated considerably.
Fortunately, Borman elucidates the location where Edward resided upon his arrival at the Tower of London, although she does not specify the name of the place. Initially, Edward V occupied the King's Lodgings, where he was expected to await his coronation. Subsequently, the documentary presents several confusing changes in location; however, this will be addressed in the next segment of the review. Let us return to the subject of Edward.
On June 16, Edward was joined by his youngest brother, Richard of Shrewsbury, the Duke of York. However, Edward grew increasingly suspicious as the circumstances within the Tower began to shift. As events unfolded, a substantial amount of strain was likely experienced. When both he and Richard of Shrewsbury were declared illegitimate, it was not long before the two brothers disappeared.
First Conclusion:
In conclusion, I will now summarize the first part of the review. In the subsequent segment, I will proceed to discuss Richard of Shrewsbury, the events that transpired in the Tower, and provide a thorough analysis of the documentary's controversial findings. In the interim, I invite you to share your perspectives on the documentary in the comments section.
Author's Note: All resources I have used are based on the sources from these websites and books. This information could change at any time if new evidence comes to light. Find below all the resources I've used including texts from authors who published works (and video content) from 1924 onwards:
References and Sources:
Ashdown-Hill, John, 'The Mythology of the 'Princes in The Tower' [Amberley], 2018 [Edition 2 - 2020], 'Introduction' [p4], 'What Was Young Edward Really Like? '[P22 - 24], How Was Young Edward Brought Up?' [P29 - 33] 'What Did Lord Hastings Do?' [P70 - 71]
Horter-Moore, Pamela Jean, 'The Hastings Hours: A National Treasure' [Edward V 1483]
Jones, Dan, 'The Hallow Crown: The Wars of The Roses and the Rise and Fall of the Tudors' [Faber & Faber], 2014, 'The Only Imp Now Left' [p286, 292]
Langley, Phillipa, 'The Princes in the Tower' [The History Press], 2023, '1483 ' [P56]; 'The Missing. Princes' [p32], 'Windsor Coffins and a Westminster Urn' [p149 - 155]
Mancini, Dominic, 'The Usurpation of Richard the Third' (Translated by C.A.J. Armstrong) [
Sutton Publishing LTD], Originally published in 1483 under 'De Occupatione Regni Anglie per Riccardum Tercium'[Modern Edition published on 31st of May 1984]
Orme, Nicholas, 'The Education of Edward V' [Bulletin of the Institute of Historical Research, Volume 57, Issue 136, November 1984] [Second edition published12 October 2007]
Scofield, Cora, 'The Life and Reign of King Edward the Fourth' [London: Longmans, Green and Co.], 1924
Starkey, David, 'Henry: The Prince Who Would Turn Tyrant' [Harper Perennial], Duke of York [p74 - 77]
Website References:
Video References:
Lion Television [2024] 'The Princes In The Tower: A Daming Discovery', 3 December 2024. Available at: https://www.channel5.com/show/princes-in-the-tower-a-damning-discovery
History Calling (YouTube) [2024], 'HISTORIAN REACTS TO NEW PRINCES IN THE TOWER EVIDENCE', 6 December 2024. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fqbfd1YicCw
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