Simnel’s Dublin Crown
Archived: 19 October 2026
Abstract
In 1487 Dublin became the base for a Yorkist challenge to Henry VII. Lambert Simnel, presented as Edward, earl of Warwick, was crowned Edward VI at Christ Church, backed by Kildare and elements of the Anglo-Irish clergy and administration. With Lincoln, German mercenaries and approximately 4,000 Irish kerns, the coalition invaded England, but was defeated at Stoke, where many Irishmen, including Thomas FitzGerald, died. Meanwhile, Gaelic lordships endured warfare, killings and contested successions. Severe storms and summer rain damaged buildings and crops. Churches suffered in raids, while poet, historian and legal scholar died. Desmond’s earl was murdered, highlighting FitzGerald instability.