document elaborate notes about the monarchy in the late Middle Ages: answering questions of what, when, who, etc

What: The monarchy in the late Middle Ages refers to the form of government where a king or queen (monarch) rules the kingdom. This period saw significant changes in the power and role of the monarchy, with the establishment of hereditary succession, the concept of divine right, and the growth of nation-states.

When: The late Middle Ages refers to the period from the 13th to the 15th century (approximately 1300 to 1500).

Who: The monarchs varied by region. In England, for example, the late Middle Ages saw the reign of monarchs from the Plantagenet, Lancaster, and York families, including Richard II, Henry IV, and Richard III. In France, the Valois dynasty began with Philip VI. In Spain, this period includes the reign of the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile.

Where: Monarchies were prevalent across Europe during the late Middle Ages, including in England, France, Spain, Portugal, and parts of what is now Italy and Germany.

Why: The monarchy was a common form of government during this period. Monarchs claimed their right to rule was given by God (the divine right of kings) and this was generally accepted. The late Middle Ages was a period of significant change and conflict, including the Hundred Years' War between England and France, the War of the Roses in England, and the Reconquista in Spain. These events often centered around monarchs and their power.

How: Monarchs ruled their kingdoms with the support of a noble class, who in return for their loyalty were granted land and titles. They made laws, levied taxes, and led their kingdoms in war. The Church also played a significant role in supporting the monarchy. The power of monarchs grew during this period, with the development of centralized bureaucracies and standing armies.