After seven years of dedicated research and extensive information gathering, The Missing Princes Project has reached its first milestone.
This phase involved meticulous archival investigations across various locations worldwide, leading to compelling findings regarding the fates of the sons of Edward IV.
The initial evidence points to the possibility that both princes survived long enough to oppose Henry VII, the inaugural Tudor king.
Historical accounts have often depicted Edward V and Richard of York as mere victims of a ruthless regime; however, they were instead portrayed by Henry as impostors.
In this narrative, Edward V was recast as ‘Lambert Simnel,’ a fictitious child linked to humble trades, while Richard was labeled ‘Perkin Warbeck,’ supposedly the son of a French fisherman.
What sparked the inception of The Missing Princes Project?
Its roots can be traced back to the Looking for Richard Project (2005-2015), which emphasized the value of evidence-based history.
The project gained momentum after a provocative article during a reburial week questioned the glorification of a historical figure associated with the death of children, highlighting the need for a new, evidence-driven exploration into this tale.
Implementing police investigative methods has proven invaluable in this endeavor.
These techniques underscore the importance of forensic analysis in unearthing truths about the past.
They teach researchers to meticulously cross-check information, probe financial records, and seek out administrative documents that may not have been intended for public view.
The goal is to approach history without preconceptions, continually questioning every lead and maintaining an open mind.
So, what did the project’s specialists recommend?
Firstly, they emphasized the necessity of examining day-to-day records to uncover the truth hidden within them.
Secondly, they advised against dismissing any potential leads based on preconceived notions.
Lastly, they stressed living in the present—analyzing events as they occurred, minute by minute, and building comprehensive timelines to maintain clarity.
The project has unveiled four significant discoveries that shine new light on this historical mystery.
These findings stem from rigorous intelligence gathering and forensic analysis conducted over four years, extending into the era of Henry VII.
Discovery one reveals that exhaustive investigation of records from Richard III’s reign provides no evidence to support the claim that either Edward V or Richard, Duke of York, died during that period.
Instead, all existing accounting and legal documents reference both princes as alive.
Discovery two traces the origin of the princes’ murder story back to Henry Tudor’s arrival in England.
Following his victory at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485, Tudor’s forces interrogated captive Yorkists, and he even paused his advance to London to search for the princes in northern England.
The third discovery offers proof that Edward V was alive at the age of 17.
A receipt dated December 16, 1487, found in Lille, France, details a weapons purchase made by King Maximilian I for Edward, indicating he was indeed thought to be alive at that time, having been “expelled from his dominion.”
Finally, discovery four presents evidence of Richard, Duke of York’s existence in 1493 through a witness statement detailing his life from the time he left sanctuary in Westminster as a young boy until he reached Burgundy.
This document provides rich insights into his journey and experiences.
Each key finding underwent thorough authentication processes involving relevant archives and independent historians, ensuring their credibility before being presented to the public.
This meticulous effort highlights the potential for a fresh approach to historical research that could reshape our understanding of this enigmatic chapter in English history.
As these revelations emerge, they pave the way for a reassessment of the York and Tudor dynasties, shedding light on both Richard III and Henry VII.
The anticipation surrounding future discoveries from today’s young historians is palpable.
Among the notable moments in this journey was the release of a revised edition of Domenico Mancini’s work, which rectified biases from earlier translations.
This publication is now regarded as essential reading for anyone interested in this historical period.
Though Phase One of The Missing Princes Project has concluded, the quest continues.
Researchers remain committed to scouring archives globally, piecing together the intriguing stories of Edward V and Richard, Duke of York, with the hope of one day locating their final resting places.
While the debate surrounding the fate of the Princes in the Tower remains contentious, skepticism is understandable.
Change can be unsettling.
Yet, as historical narratives evolve based on solid evidence, it becomes crucial for individuals to reassess their beliefs in light of new findings.
After all, history is not merely about tradition but about discovering the truth.
