Summary of Hundred Years’ War

Introduction

The Hundred Years' War, which began in 1337, was a defining conflict in European history that lasted for over a century. This series of battles and power struggles between the kingdoms of England and France had far-reaching consequences for both countries and the rest of Europe.

One of the key factors that led to the outbreak of the Hundred Years' War was the question of succession to the French throne. When Charles IV of France died without a male heir, both King Edward III of England and Philip VI of France laid claim to the throne, sparking a bitter and prolonged conflict.

Over the course of the war, there were numerous battles and sieges fought between the two sides, with both experiencing victories and defeats. The war saw the rise of new military tactics and technologies, as well as the emergence of legendary figures such as Joan of Arc.

King Edward III of England

King Edward III of England was the monarch who initiated the Hundred Years' War by laying claim to the French throne, setting off a series of conflicts between the two countries.

King Philip VI of France

King Philip VI of France was the ruler of France at the start of the Hundred Years' War and was faced with defending his kingdom against English aggression.

Joan of Arc

Joan of Arc was a key figure in the later stages of the Hundred Years' War, leading the French army to several important victories and ultimately helping to secure French independence.

Henry V of England

Henry V of England was a notable English monarch who achieved significant military successes during the Hundred Years' War, including the famous Battle of Agincourt.

Charles VII of France

Charles VII of France was crowned king during the Hundred Years' War and played a crucial role in consolidating French power and driving out the English forces.

1. The Beginning of the Conflict

In 1337, the Hundred Years' War began as a series of conflicts between the kingdoms of England and France. The war would last for over a century, with periods of fighting separated by temporary truces.

2. The Causes of the War

The main cause of the Hundred Years' War was the English claim to the French throne. This claim was based on the fact that King Edward III of England was the nephew of the deceased French king, Philip IV.

3. The Battle of Crécy

One of the first major battles of the war was the Battle of Crécy in 1346. The English, led by Edward III, achieved a decisive victory over the French forces, thanks in part to their skilled use of the longbow.

4. The Siege of Calais

After the Battle of Crécy, the English laid siege to the city of Calais. The city held out for nearly a year before surrendering to the English, who then controlled an important strategic port on the English Channel.

5. The Treaty of Brétigny

In 1360, the Treaty of Brétigny was signed, temporarily ending the fighting between England and France. Under the terms of the treaty, England gained control of large territories in France, including Aquitaine.

6. The Black Death

The outbreak of the Black Death in the mid-14th century had a significant impact on the Hundred Years' War. The plague killed millions of people in Europe, leading to a decrease in manpower for both the English and French armies.

7. The Battle of Agincourt

One of the most famous battles of the Hundred Years' War was the Battle of Agincourt in 1415. The English, led by King Henry V, achieved a stunning victory over the larger French army, thanks in part to their use of longbows.

8. The Siege of Orléans

In 1429, the French army, led by Joan of Arc, successfully lifted the siege of Orléans, a major turning point in the war. Joan's leadership inspired the French forces and boosted their morale.

9. The Coronation of Charles VII

After the French victory at Orléans, Charles VII was crowned king of France in Reims in 1429. This event helped to legitimize his claim to the throne and bolstered support for the French cause.

10. The End of the War

The Hundred Years' War finally came to an end in 1453, when the French recaptured the strategic city of Bordeaux from the English. The war had devastated both countries and left a lasting impact on the political and social landscape of Europe.

In conclusion, the Hundred Years' War was a long and complex conflict that lasted for over a century, spanning from 1337 to 1453. It was a series of battles between England and France over territorial disputes and claims to the French throne, leading to significant political and social upheaval in both countries.Despite its name, the Hundred Years' War was not a continuous conflict but a series of separate military campaigns and truces. The war had lasting effects on both countries, shaping their national identities and influencing the course of European history for years to come.