What was the nickname of Richard Neville, 16th Earl of Warwick?

Richard Neville, 16th Earl of Warwick, was nicknamed “the Kingmaker.” The name reflects his extraordinary influence during the Wars of the Roses, when his military power and political alliances helped determine who occupied England’s throne.

Warwick initially supported the Yorkist claim against King Henry VI of Lancaster. He helped Edward, Earl of March, defeat the Lancastrians and become King Edward IV in 1461. For a time, Warwick was one of the most powerful figures in England, with vast estates, important offices, and extensive political connections.

His relationship with Edward later collapsed. Warwick opposed the king’s marriage to Elizabeth Woodville and resented the growing influence of the Woodville family. After rebelling, Warwick joined forces with Edward’s brother George, Duke of Clarence, and eventually restored the deposed Henry VI in 1470.

That restoration lasted only briefly. Edward returned to England, defeated Warwick at the Battle of Barnet on 14 April 1471, and killed him. Warwick’s nickname is therefore linked to his ability to make and unmake kings, although his career ultimately ended in defeat.