The Wars of the Roses (Men at Arms Series, 145) [Paperback]

Terence Wise (Author), Gerry Embleton (Illustrator)

Book Description

Series: Men-at-Arms | Publication Date: November 24, 1983

Much myth and fantasy surrounds the events of the Wars of the Roses (1455-1485): a bloody and prolonged dynastic struggle between the houses of York and Lancaster. Terence Wise's fascinating text lays bare the real story, and examines the armies, liveries and badges of the conflict. The author's readable account provides a comprehensive guide as to who fought whom, where, when, why and for what, from the origins of the Wars to such famous battles as Tewkesbury and Bosworth. The accompanying photographs, illustrations and colour plates by Gerry Embleton clearly detail the arms, armor and standards of the time.

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

Packed with specially commissioned artwork, maps and diagrams, the Men-at-Arms series is an unrivalled illustrated reference on the history, organisation, uniforms and equipment of the world's military forces, past and present.

About the Author

Terence Wise is one of Osprey’s most popular authors and has been a respected historical writer for more than 25 years. With numerous books and articles to his credit, he has contributed more than a dozen titles to the Men-At-Arms series, mainly on medieval subjects including studies of the military orders.

Product Details

• Paperback: 48 pages
• Publisher: Osprey Publishing (November 24, 1983)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0850455200
• ISBN-13: 978-0850455205
• Product Dimensions: 7.2 x 0.2 x 9.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 5.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #489,391 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Excellent general reference on battles and equipment., February 14, 2006

By 

oakheart (Virginia, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Wars of the Roses (Men at Arms Series, 145) (Paperback)

This volume in Osprey's limitless Men at Arms series offers an excellent overall reference on the battles and the arms and armor of this late 15th-century civil war. The breakdown of law that resulted from the existing system of hiring soldiers is explained, as well as its repercussions on the conflict. Small maps are included for all the major battles, including Towton, Tewkesbury, Hexham, Barnet, and Bosworth. The discussion of equipment includes several subtleties, such as the correct origin of the term "pole axe" and the dubious historical value of medieval harnesses of plate assembled by later collectors.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars " Now is the winter of our discontent....", August 12, 2002

By 

ignorance is bliss "therazorsedge555" (Tempe, AZ United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Wars of the Roses (Osprey Trade Editions) (Paperback)

The copy I have is the Osprey Men at Arms title written in 1983, but the pages are identical to the ones shown here. Let's face it...there are scores of books on the War of the Roses. This one gives a good visual grasp of the conflict, and impresses the reader with the sheer slaughter perpetrated...twenty-five percent losses to the cream of English nobility. There are some decent descriptions of battles and the armor and weapons used. Especially of interest is the section on the systems of recruitment and organization of the armies.A long period of chaos and dynastic struggle in English history, finally brought to an end with the House of Tudor. My first Men at Arms title purchased, years ago, so I am somewhat fond of this one. They still need help in the map department. History books without decent maps should be a punishable offense. S'wounds!