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Why did the Woodville family want Edward V crowned quickly?

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Richard III King Richard III, panel by an unknown artist.

Following the death of King Edward IV on April 9, 1483, the royal council was dominated by the family of the dowager queen, Elizabeth Woodville. This group, known as the Woodvilles (or Wydevilles), sought to have the 12-year-old Edward V crowned immediately to consolidate their influence.1

By securing a rapid coronation, the Woodville family intended to render the appointment of a protector unnecessary. This would have effectively bypassed the authority of Richard, Duke of Gloucester—whom Edward IV had designated as lord protector in his will—and allowed the Woodvilles to maintain control over the government and rule on the young king's behalf. Their efforts to expedite the ceremony were opposed by other members of the council, including Lord Hastings, who sought to involve Richard in the transition of power.1