“Richard II was deposed in 1399 because of his poor governance.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that Richard II was deposed because of his poor governance. There may be reference to his mistakes such as the imposition of the Poll Tax (arguably he was still a minor at this point); his levelling of arbitrary fines; the redrafting of royal charters to increase his power was also unpopular. His reliance on favourites such as de Vere and his exaggerated view of the extent of his power caused discontent with the barons and Parliament. By 1386/87, there were attempts to remove his favourites such as de la Pole by the Lords Appellant, however, by 1389 Richard had reassumed control of the government. Subsequently his harsh treatment of the Lords Appellant with the deaths of Gloucester and Arundel and the exiling of Bolingbroke undermined support amongst the magnates. His seizure of the Lancastrian inheritance in 1399 led to Bolingbroke’s return with a small army. There is much evidence to support the statement, but it could also be argued that his failure in Ireland was the key factor that weakened his hold on the throne and contributed to Bolingbroke’s success. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that Richard II was deposed because of his poor governance.