The War of the Roses was a series of civil wars fought in England during the 15th century, primarily between two rival branches of the House of Plantagenet: the Lancasters and the Yorks. The conflict began in 1455 and lasted until 1487, with both sides vying for control of the English throne. The wars were named after the symbols of the two houses: a red rose for the Lancasters and a white rose for the Yorks. Key battles included the Battle of Towton and the Battle of Bosworth Field, where significant leaders like Henry Tudor and Richard III played crucial roles. The war ultimately ended with the rise of the Tudor dynasty, following Henry Tudor's victory at Bosworth in 1485, which marked the beginning of a new era in English history.