The White Queen is one of the legendary characters of British history. She was an English noblewoman and the wife of King Edward IV, one of the most powerful kings in the Wars of the Roses. The story of her life and her influence on the monarchy is a compelling and complicated one.

The White Queen’s story begins with the death of her father, Richard Woodville, who had held power and influence as a prominent Lancastrian during the Wars of the Roses. She was known in her youth as Lady Elizabeth (or Elizabeth of York), and she was the eldest child of her father’s wife Jacquetta of Luxembourg. She was of both royal and aristocratic heritage, with a grandmother who had been the Queen of the Kingdom of Navarre.

After her father’s death, Elizabeth was contemplated as a possible marriage union with the son of King Edward IV, Edward of Westminster. Elizabeth and Edward were married in 1464, with Elizabeth’s siblings also marrying into high standing positions in the English aristocracy. As a result, the Woodville family came to acquire significant influence and power at the English court.

Elizabeth wielded her influence in various ways. She helped her own family members to gain power, but also acted as an adviser to her husband on many occasions, making sure that his decisions were beneficial to the monarchy and the country. With her knowledge, intelligence, and political savvy, Elizabeth helped Edward strengthen his position as the leader of a powerful and respected kingdom.

In 1483, Elizabeth and Edward’s son ascended to the throne as King Richard III. Elizabeth, now known as the "White Queen", was instrumental in his bid for power, helping him with her voice as a great supporter, as well as financially and politically. She even attended his coronation ceremony as his queen mother and defended him against the accusations of his enemies.

Although Elizabeth and her family had an influential role in the political history of England, their legacy is clouded in controversy. Many historians have branded them as opportunists who sought to further their own interests at the expense of their country and king. Despite this, Elizabeth’s influence, power, and courage made her a powerful figure in English history, and her story will remain a source of fascination to generations to come.