Rivers, Richard Woodville, 1st Earl

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Rivers, Richard Woodville, 1st Earl (c.1410–69). Father of Elizabeth, queen of Edward IV. He was raised to the peerage in 1448 on account of his marriage to Bedford's wealthy widow. Following distinguished service in France, he remained attached to the Lancastrian court, fighting on the losing side at Towton. However, he had made his peace with Edward IV by 1463. After his daughter became queen, he rose rapidly in favour, incurring the hatred of the earl of Warwick. He was one of the first victims when the Kingmaker rebelled in 1469, being killed at Edgecote Field.

Anthony James Pollard

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Richard Woodville 1st Earl Rivers

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