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Hundred Years War; Explained

The Hundred Years’ War, lasting from 1337 to 1453, was a series of conflicts between the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of France. Rooted in territorial disputes and claims to the French throne, the war mostly altered the course of European history. The origins of the conflict can be seen back to the succession crisis following the death of the French king Charles IV, who left no male heir.

By Jean Fouquet – http://expositions.bnf

Edward III of England, whose mother was Charles IV’s sister, laid claim to the French throne, but the French nobility preferred Philip VI, a cousin of the deceased king. This dynastic dispute, combined with economic rivalries and territorial ambitions, set the stage for a prolonged period of warfare.

Major Phases of the War

The Hundred Years’ War is traditionally divided into three main phases. The Edwardian Era War (1337-1360) marked the beginning of hostilities, characterized by early English victories at battles such as Crécy and Poitiers. These successes were largely due to the effective use of the longbow by English forces. The second phase, known as the Caroline War (1369-1389), saw a resurgence of French fortunes under the leadership of Charles V. During this period, the French managed to recapture much of the territory lost to the English. The final phase, the Lancastrian War (1415-1453), began with Henry V’s invasion of France and his famous victory at the Battle of Agincourt. However, the tide eventually turned in favor of the French, especially with the inspirational leadership of Joan of Arc, culminating in the decisive Battle of Castillon and the eventual expulsion of English forces from France.

Many key battles and events defined the Hundred Years’ War. The Battle of Crécy in 1346 show’s the effectiveness of the English longbowmen and resulted in a most victory for Edward III. The capture of King John II of France at the Battle of Poitiers in 1356 further weakened French resistance and led to the Treaty of Brétigny in 1360, which temporarily halted hostilities. Henry V’s victory at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415 was another major English triumph, showcasing superior military tactics against a larger French force. However, the siege of Orléans in 1428-1429, where Joan of Arc seens as a key figure, have great impact on war. Joan’s leadership and the subsequent lifting of the siege galvanized French resistance, leading to a series of French victories that ultimately ended the war.

Major Phases of the War

The Hundred Years’ War is traditionally divided into three main phases. The Edwardian Era War (1337-1360) marked the beginning of hostilities, characterized by early English victories at battles such as Crécy and Poitiers. These successes were largely due to the effective use of the longbow by English forces. The second phase, known as the Caroline War (1369-1389), saw a resurgence of French fortunes under the leadership of Charles V. During this period, the French managed to recapture much of the territory lost to the English. The final phase, the Lancastrian War (1415-1453), began with Henry V’s invasion of France and his famous victory at the Battle of Agincourt. However, the tide eventually turned in favor of the French, especially with the inspirational leadership of Joan of Arc, culminating in the decisive Battle of Castillon and the eventual expulsion of English forces from France.

Key Battles and Events

Several key battles and events defined the Hundred Years’ War. The Battle of Crécy in 1346 demonstrated the effectiveness of the English longbowmen and resulted in a significant victory for Edward III. The capture of King John II of France at the Battle of Poitiers in 1356 further weakened French resistance and led to the Treaty of Brétigny in 1360, which temporarily halted hostilities. Henry V’s victory at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415 was another major English triumph, showcasing superior military tactics against a larger French force. However, the siege of Orléans in 1428-1429, where Joan of Arc emerged as a key figure, marked a turning point in the war. Joan’s leadership and the subsequent lifting of the siege galvanized French resistance, leading to a series of French victories that ultimately ended the war.

Political and Social Impact

The Hundred Years’ War had profound political and social impacts on both England and France. In England, the protracted conflict strained the economy and contributed to internal political instability, culminating in the Wars of the Roses. The war also led to significant changes in military tactics and the role of the nobility. In France, the war fostered a sense of national identity and unity, as the French monarchy centralized power and rebuilt the country. The devastation wrought by the war, including widespread famine and population loss, had long-term social and economic consequences. Additionally, the war influenced broader European politics, shifting power dynamics and setting the stage for future conflicts.

Conclusion

The Hundred Years’ War concluded with the Treaty of Picquigny in 1475, although hostilities had effectively ended with the French victory at Castillon in 1453. The war’s legacy is evident in the lasting changes it brought to both England and France, shaping their political landscapes and national identities. The conflict also marked a significant period in medieval history, illustrating the complexities of feudal loyalties, the evolution of warfare, and the enduring struggle for power and territory in Europe.

References

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