Henry IV of England

Henry Bolingbroke deposed Richard II and claimed the English throne as Henry IV. This usurpation established the Lancastrian dynasty but created a legitimacy crisis that led to future conflicts.

Henry IV defeated a rebellion led by Henry Percy (Hotspur) at the Battle of Shrewsbury. Hotspur was killed, and the rebellion was crushed, but the king suffered heavy casualties and ongoing challenges.

Henry IV ordered the execution of Richard Scrope, Archbishop of York, for leading a rebellion. This act shocked the church and nobility, damaging Henry's reputation and legitimacy.

Henry IV suffered from a debilitating illness, possibly leprosy or epilepsy, which weakened his rule. He became increasingly unable to govern effectively, leading to factionalism and his son's growing influence.