The Hundred Years’ War is one of the most iconic and significant conflicts in European history. Spanning over a century from 1337 to 1453, this war was not a continuous battle but rather a series of intermittent conflicts between the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of France. Despite its name, the Hundred Years’ War was actually a series of wars, truces, and disputes that shaped the political landscape of Europe and had far-reaching consequences for both nations involved. In this blog post, we will explore the background, key events, and impact of this epic conflict on Europe.
Background and causes of the Hundred Years’ War
The origins of the Hundred Years’ War can be traced back to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. When William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, conquered England, he became both King of England and vassal to the King of France. This complex relationship between the two countries set the stage for future conflicts.
In the 14th century, England and France were two of the most powerful nations in Europe. However, their relationship was strained due to various factors, including territorial disputes, dynastic rivalries, and economic competition. The root cause of the Hundred Years’ War can be attributed to the ongoing dispute over the succession to the French throne.
In 1328, Charles IV of France died without a male heir, leaving his daughter Isabella as the rightful heir to the throne. However, the French nobles refused to accept a female ruler and instead proclaimed Charles IV’s cousin, Philip of Valois, as King Philip VI of France. This decision was seen as illegitimate by Edward III of England, who was also a direct descendant of the French royal family through his mother Isabella. As a result, Edward III laid claim to the French throne, igniting a rivalry that would last for over a hundred years.
The dispute over the French throne was not the only cause of tension between England and France. The two nations were also engaged in a bitter struggle over territory, trade, and influence. In the early 14th century, England controlled vast territories in France, including Gascony, Normandy, and Aquitaine, which were considered French possessions. This created resentment among the French nobles, who saw these territories as rightfully theirs. In addition, England’s wool industry was thriving, and they were the main suppliers of wool to Flanders, a major trade center in Europe. This economic dominance was challenged by the French, who imposed heavy taxes on English merchants, leading to further animosity between the two nations.
Key events and battles during the war
The Hundred Years’ War can be divided into three phases, with each phase marked by significant events and battles.
Phase One: The Edwardian War (1337-1360)
The first phase of the Hundred Years’ War, known as the Edwardian War, began in 1337 when Edward III of England declared himself the rightful King of France and launched a military campaign in Normandy. This phase is characterized by several key events and battles, including:
- Battle of Sluys (1340) – This naval battle saw a decisive victory for the English fleet over the larger French fleet. The English used innovative tactics and technology, including the use of longbows, which proved to be highly effective against the French ships.
- Battle of Crécy (1346) – This battle marked the first major land engagement of the Hundred Years’ War. The English, led by Edward III, defeated the French army, which was significantly larger in number. The use of longbows once again played a crucial role in the English victory.
- Siege of Calais (1346-1347) – After their victory at Crécy, the English laid siege to the city of Calais. The siege lasted for over a year, and the city eventually surrendered to the English in 1347.
- Battle of Poitiers (1356) – This battle was a significant victory for the English, who once again used their longbowmen to great effect. The French King John II was captured, and a truce was declared between the two nations.
- Treaty of Brétigny (1360) – This treaty marked the end of the first phase of the Hundred Years’ War. As per the terms of the treaty, England gained control of large territories in France, including Aquitaine, Gascony, and Calais. In return, Edward III renounced his claim to the French throne.
Phase Two: The Caroline War (1369-1389)
The second phase of the Hundred Years’ War, known as the Caroline War, began in 1369 when Charles V of France rejected the Treaty of Brétigny and resumed hostilities with England. This phase is characterized by several key events and battles, including:
- Battle of Najera (1367) – This battle saw an alliance between England and Castile, two of the most powerful kingdoms in Europe, against France. The English army, led by Edward, the Black Prince, defeated the Franco-Castilian army.
- Siege of Limoges (1370) – After the English victory at the Battle of Najera, they laid siege to the city of Limoges in France. The city was eventually captured by the English, and thousands of its inhabitants were massacred.
- Battle of Pontvallain (1370) – This battle was a major defeat for the English, who suffered heavy casualties. It also marked the end of the alliance between England and Castile.
- Battle of Rochelle (1372) – This naval battle saw a decisive victory for the English over the larger French fleet, securing their control over the English Channel.
- Truce of Bruges (1375) – This truce marked the end of the Caroline War and was signed between Charles V of France and Edward III of England. It was agreed that all territories captured by either side would be returned, except for Calais.
Phase Three: The Lancastrian War (1415-1453)
The final phase of the Hundred Years’ War, known as the Lancastrian War, began in 1415 when Henry V of England invaded France once again. This phase is characterized by several key events and battles, including:
- Battle of Agincourt (1415) – This battle was a significant victory for the English, who once again used their longbowmen to great effect. The French suffered heavy casualties, and the English emerged victorious.
- Siege of Rouen (1418) – After their victory at Agincourt, the English laid siege to the city of Rouen. The city eventually surrendered to the English, and Henry V was declared heir to the French throne.
- Treaty of Troyes (1420) – This treaty marked the end of the Lancastrian War and was signed between Henry V of England and Charles VI of France. As per the terms of the treaty, Henry V married Catherine, daughter of Charles VI, and was recognized as heir to the French throne.
- Battle of Patay (1429) – This battle was a crushing defeat for the English, who were led by John Talbot. The French army, led by Joan of Arc, dealt a severe blow to the morale of the English army.
- Battle of Castillon (1453) – This was the final battle of the Hundred Years’ War, and it resulted in a decisive victory for the French. The English army was defeated, and they lost all their territories in France except for Calais.
Impact of the war on Europe and the nations involved
The Hundred Years’ War had a profound impact on both England and France, as well as Europe as a whole. Some of the key consequences of this epic conflict include:
- Rise of nationalism – The Hundred Years’ War fueled a sense of national identity and patriotism in both England and France. This was evident in their respective propaganda, literature, and art during the war.
- Technological advancements – The use of longbows by the English revolutionized warfare and brought about significant changes in military tactics. This also led to the development of more sophisticated weapons and armor.
- Economic impact – The Hundred Years’ War had a devastating effect on the economy of both England and France. The cost of prolonged warfare, coupled with the loss of trade and resources, led to economic struggles and instability in both countries.
- Political repercussions – The Hundred Years’ War had a significant impact on the political landscape of Europe. It weakened the feudal system in France and paved the way for the rise of centralized monarchies in both England and France.
- End of medieval warfare – The Hundred Years’ War signified the end of medieval warfare and the beginning of the modern era of warfare. The use of new tactics, technology, and weapons set the stage for future conflicts in Europe.
Conclusion and legacy of the Hundred Years’ War
The Hundred Years’ War is a testament to the enduring rivalry between two powerful nations and the lasting effects of dynastic disputes and territorial ambitions. It changed the course of European history and laid the foundations for the modern nation-states we see today. While the war was costly and devastating for both England and France, it also brought about significant changes in military tactics, technology, and political structures. The legacy of the Hundred Years’ War continues to be felt in Europe, serving as a reminder of the consequences of power struggles and conflicts between nations.
