Ten Minute English and British History #15 - The Hundred Years' War

Summary

The Hundred Years War, a conflict spanning 116 years with intermittent peace, began with Edward III's claim to the French throne. Key battles like Sluys and Crecy marked English victories, but the war's phases saw shifting fortunes. The Black Death and political instability further complicated matters. Joan of Arc's intervention led to French resurgence, culminating in the decisive Battle of Castillon. The war shaped English identity and marked the transition to viewing England as an island nation.

Takeaways

• 🏰 Edward III claimed the French throne through his mother Isabella, initiating the Hundred Years War, which lasted 116 years with intermittent periods of peace.
• ⚔ The Battle of Sluys was the first major naval battle of the war, resulting in a decisive English victory and securing the English Channel.
• 🏹 The Battle of Crecy showcased the effectiveness of English longbowmen and was a significant English victory, with many French nobles killed.
• 🏰 Edward III captured the strategic port of Calais, providing a crucial gateway for future English campaigns in France.
• 😷 The Black Death led to a significant pause in the war, as the plague decimated the population on both sides, preventing major military campaigns.
• 🏰 The Treaty of Brétigny ended the first phase of the war, with Edward renouncing his claim to the French throne in exchange for substantial territories.
• 👑 The capture of King John II of France at the Battle of Poitiers was a major turning point, leading to a substantial ransom and a temporary English advantage.
• 🛡 The war's second phase, under King Charles V of France, saw a resurgence of French power and a reduction of English territories.
• 🏰 Henry V's reign marked a resurgence of English fortunes, including the famous victory at the Battle of Agincourt and the eventual Treaty of Troyes, which made him heir to the French throne.
• 🏹 Joan of Arc's intervention led to a revitalization of French forces, culminating in the lifting of the English siege at Orléans and a series of French victories that shifted the war's momentum.
• ⚔ The Battle of Castillon marked the end of the Hundred Years War, with the French making significant technological and tactical advances, effectively ending English ambitions in France.

Q & A

Why did Edward III of England claim the throne of France?

Edward III claimed the throne of France through his mother, Isabella, which the French dismissed because inheritance wasn't matrilineal at the time.

What was the actual duration of the Hundred Years War?

The Hundred Years War lasted for 116 years, not 100, and it was not a continuous conflict.

What was the significance of the Battle of Sluys?

The Battle of Sluys was the first major battle of the Hundred Years War, which resulted in the destruction of the French fleet and secured the English Channel for England.

Why was the truce between England and France not long-lasting after the Battle of Sluys?

The truce was not long-lasting because both sides were unable to afford the war, and negotiations for a permanent peace broke down due to Edward's unwillingness to seek peace.

What was the importance of Calais for Edward III?

Calais was an extremely important gain for Edward III as it provided a gateway into France at the shortest crossing point from England, making future campaigns cheaper.

What was the impact of the Black Death on the Hundred Years War?

The Black Death caused significant destruction, preventing any major military campaigns from being undertaken by either side for many years.

Why was the Battle of Poitiers considered a decisive English victory?

The Battle of Poitiers was a decisive English victory because it resulted in the capture of the French King, John II, and was a significant blow to the French nobility.

What were the terms of the Treaty of Brétigny that ended the first phase of the war?

The Treaty of Brétigny gave Edward III land in return for dropping his claim to the French throne and lowering King John II's ransom.

How did the assassination of the Duke of Burgundy affect the Hundred Years War?

The assassination led to the Duke's successor, Philippe, siding with the English and declaring his support for Henry V as the King of France, which was a significant turning point in the war.

What was the significance of the Battle of Agincourt for Henry V?

The Battle of Agincourt was significant for Henry V as it was one of England's greatest military victories despite being heavily outnumbered, and it led to the Treaty of Troyes.

How did Joan of Arc contribute to the French resurgence during the Hundred Years War?

Joan of Arc played a crucial role by leading an army that relieved the siege of Orléans and won the Battle of Patay, which led to many French nobles switching allegiance to the Dauphin, later crowned King Charles VII.

What marked the end of the Hundred Years War according to the script?

The Battle of Castillon is often considered the end of the Hundred Years War, as it marked the point where England no longer had a realistic chance of retaking France.