What Was The War Of The Roses?

The War of the Roses was a battle for the thron of England in 1455-1485, between the Yorkists and the Lancastrians.  The House of York had as its emblem the White Rose and the House of Lancaster had the Red Rose.
Both Houses were actually descendants of Edward lll.  The House of Lancaster had actually been in power since 1399 but were unpopular due to high taxes and losses during the Hundred Years' War.  This was not helped by King Henry Vl experiencing at least temporary insanity.
So, the Duke of York, Richard staked a claim to the title.  He eventually won this title in 1460.  However, battles and skirmishes still ensued, for over twenty years.  Although power was transferred to his son Edward, in 1462.
The issue was finally settled in 1486, when Henry Tudor, a member of the House of Lancaster, married Elizabeth of York, thus allying the two Houses and ending the conflict.