This Day in History: 2013-02-04

On 4th February 2013, scientists from the University of Leicester announced that DNA testing, radiocarbon dating, radiological and archaeological evidence had proven conclusively that remains discovered beneath a car park at Grey Friars, Leicester, were those of Richard III, son of Richard, Duke of York and lord of Sandal Castle. Some contemporary sources had suggested that his body had been thrown into the River Soar. The following day, an online campaign, supported by Stephen Nicolay, 16th great-grandson of Richard Plantagenet, 3rd Duke of York, was launched for Richard’s remains to be interred at York, receiving an e-petition of 8,000 signatures within days. A High Court judicial review to determine the remains’ final resting place concluded on 23rd May 2014 in favour of Leicester.