With the success of the Yorkists on the accession of Richard’s son as Edward IV, the Geraldines became predominant in Ireland, and during his reign, (1461-83), and that of his brother, Richard III (1483-1485), the Earls of Desmond and Kildare shared official power almost without interruption. The Earl of Ormonde had been beheaded in England and his estates confiscated.

The latter measure was ratified by the Irish Parliament, and when Sir John Butler claimed the Ormonde estates, he was opposed by Thomas, 8th Earl of Desmond. A fierce battle took place at Piltown (Co. Kilkenny), in which the Butlers were defeated (1462).

Edmond Butler, who had taken the name of Mac Riocaird, was made prisoner, and was ransomed by the transfer of two Irish books . Sir John Butler held out for some years, although his castles at Kilkenny and elsewhere were captured. Upon the accession of Henry VII the lands of the Ormondes were restored, but the Earls of Ormonde continued for a long time to reside in England, and the Butlers were led in Ireland by other members of the family.

Above : Picture Of Lambert Simnell, Edward IV

Above : Picture Of King Henry VII, The Tudor