The Hundred Years War

The Hundred Years’ War was characterized by a series of significant battles and strategic shifts that shaped the course of medieval warfare. This article explores some of the most crucial engagements and their impacts on the conflict.

Battle of Crécy (1346)

The Battle of Crécy, fought on August 26, 1346, was a landmark English victory. King Edward III of England’s forces defeated the French army led by Philip VI. The battle highlighted the effectiveness of the English longbow and marked a turning point in military tactics. The English forces, numbering around 10,000, defeated a French army of approximately 30,000 (1). This victory secured English control over Calais, a crucial port city (2).

Siege of Calais (1347)

Following the Battle of Crécy, the Siege of Calais became a focal point. The city, under siege for nearly a year, fell to the English on August 3, 1347. The capture of Calais was a strategic triumph for England, providing a strong base for further military operations in France. The siege demonstrated the strategic importance of fortifications and siege warfare in medieval conflicts (3).

Battle of Poitiers (1356)

The Battle of Poitiers, occurring on September 19, 1356, was another significant English victory. English forces, led by Edward, the Black Prince, captured the French King John II. The defeat was a blow to French morale and led to the Treaty of Brétigny in 1360, which temporarily favored English interests by ceding substantial territories (4). This battle emphasized the impact of high-profile captures on the outcome of wars.

Battle of Agincourt (1415)

The Battle of Agincourt, fought on October 25, 1415, was a decisive English victory under King Henry V. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the English army, utilizing the longbow effectively, defeated a larger French force. The battle solidified English control over northern France and showcased the tactical advantages of the longbow and terrain (5).

Conclusion

The Hundred Years’ War was marked by key battles that shaped the strategic landscape of medieval Europe. These engagements not only influenced the course of the war but also set precedents in military tactics and strategy.

References

1. The Hundred Years War: England and France at War c.1300–c.1450. Menlypedia 2024.
2. Sumption, Jonathan. The Hundred Years War: Trial by Battle. University of Pennsylvania Press, 1999.
3. Kessel, John. Joan of Arc: The Warrior Saint. Twayne Publishers, 1997.
4. Oman, Charles. A History of the Art of War in the Middle Ages. Clarendon Press, 1924.
5. Allmand, Christopher. The Hundred Years War: England and France at War c.1300–c.1450. Cambridge University Press, 1988.