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The Richard III Society

Researching and reassessing the legacy of the last Plantagenet King

Welcome to the historical fellowship dedicated since 1924 to securing a more balanced reappraisal of Richard III  We support research into his life and times and organise events to encourage a wider understanding. The rediscovery of his grave at Leicester has raised the king’s profile and provided new opportunities for reassessment.

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Become a Guardian of History

Join the Richard III Society today to obtain the latest information, support vital research and secure a balanced assessment of the last Plantagenet king.

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Mission Statement

In the belief that many features of the traditional accounts of the character and career of Richard III are neither supported by sufficient evidence nor reasonably tenable, the Society aims to promote, in every possible way, research into the life and times of Richard III, and to secure a reassessment of the material relating to this period, and raise awareness of the role in history of this monarch.

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Richard III & His World

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Long Melford Church Windows Suffolk circa 1470 

The Richard III Society promotes research into the life and times of King Richard III (1452-1485) and seeks to secure a more balanced assessment of the role and life of this controversial monarch. Exploring the world of Yorkist England, we delve into the history, culture, and legacy of the late Middle Ages and those who were part of Richard's world.

A legacy redefined through research and historical insight.

Research & Scholarship

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The Society owns a unique, extensive and unrivalled collection of archives garnered over the past 100 years. This includes papers written by eminent past Members which are as relevant to Ricardian studies today as when they were written. There is also our famous Barton Library of Non-Fiction and Fiction works, many of which can be borrowed or accessed via our Librarian.

Researchers and enthusiasts can also find invaluable lists of Ricardian resources which are available elsewhere online.

Please remember if you are quoting any of our resources to adhere to our conditions of use

Indenture for the Queens' College, Cambridge, July 1484

The Ricardian Archive

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Research & Resources

We have a unique and  extensive archive of papers written by former and present historians which were featured in our annual volume The Ricardian.

These are invaluable resources for researchers or those just interested in Richard and his world. 

Those over 5 years' old can be accessed for free

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The Society maintains a vast library of resources and primary sources dedicated to the 15th century and the King's reign.

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the leicester discovery

The rediscovery of Richard III's grave at Leicester has transformed Ricardian studies and provided a world-stage assessment of the king's final resting place.

the leicester discovery

Education

The Richard III Society has created an educational website at https://www.warsoftheroses.com/

This contains descriptions of key players in the Wars of the Roses and the causes of the conflict; aspects of life in the 15th century; reading lists for ages 7 upwards; essays on A level topics about Richard III and links to further reading for adults.

Details of our annual schools conference, sixth form essay competition and Key Stage 3 creative projects are also found there.

Many links refer readers back to the main Society website.

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The Richard III Society has created an educational website at https://www.warsoftheroses.com/

This contains descriptions of key players in the Wars of the Roses and the causes of the conflict; aspects of life in the 15th century; reading lists for ages 7 upwards; essays on A level topics about Richard III and links to further reading for adults.

Details of our annual schools conference, sixth form essay competition and Key Stage 3 creative projects are also found there.

Many links refer readers back to the main Society website.

Latest Schedule, Podcasts, Online Talks & Gatherings

Events & conventions

Zoom Lectures and Podcasts   
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To see Upcoming Events Meetings and Conventions  Press Below
To see Upcoming Zoom Lectures and Podcasts  Press Below

News & Updates

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news archive

To see previous Society news articles, visit our News Archive using the button below.

Aug 15, 2026

BRANCHES & GROUPS

The Richard III Society functions at a local level, both within the United Kingdom and in other parts of the world, through its regionally organised Branches and Groups.

MEDIA CENTRE
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For background information for the media, including press releases, visit our Media Centre using the button below.

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Why NOT join today? Your membership directly funds historical preservation and scholarly research.

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