History of England - The 100 Years War - Part 1 - Extra History

Summary

In this episode of Extra History, David Crowther takes us through the early stages of the Hundred Years War. The conflict, rooted in dynastic struggles between the English Plantagenets and French Valois, is set against the backdrop of medieval chivalry, politics, and territorial disputes. With King Edward III of England's claim to the French throne, tensions escalate after France confiscates English-held Gascony, jeopardizing trade. This episode delves into the complex motivations for war, including land, culture, and economic interests, marking the beginning of one of history's most significant and long-lasting conflicts.

Takeaways

• 😀 Edward III of England was a young, determined king who took control of his throne after defeating Roger Mortimer, his mother's lover, in 1330.
• 😀 Edward's court was a grand spectacle of color, music, and chivalric culture, influenced by the legendary Camelot and the cult of chivalry.
• 😀 The Hundred Years War began as a complex conflict involving claims over lands in France, sparked by King Philip VI of France's actions against Edward III.
• 😀 The English and French royal families had been entangled in centuries of disputes over territories in France, dating back to William the Conqueror's invasion of England in 1066.
• 😀 By the time Edward III ascended to the throne, the English still held the province of Gascony in France, but the French were determined to take it back.
• 😀 The conflict over Gascony was intertwined with the English wool trade, a vital source of wealth for England, and its connection to the Flemish textile industry.
• 😀 In 1337, Philip VI of France confiscated Gascony, which led Edward III to declare his rights over the French throne, further escalating tensions.
• 😀 Edward III’s claim to the French throne was based on his maternal lineage, but it was met with mockery by the French and fierce support from the Flemish.
• 😀 The English saw the war as a way to protect their trade routes and national prestige, while the French sought to maintain their unity and sovereignty.
• 😀 The beginning of the Hundred Years War marked the start of a long, brutal conflict with profound consequences for both England and France.

Q & A

What event triggered the start of the Hundred Years' War?

The Hundred Years' War was triggered when King Philip VI of France confiscated Gascony, a region that was under English control. This move, combined with Philip's alliance with the Scots, set the stage for conflict.

Why was Gascony important to England?

Gascony was important to England because it was a key source of wealth, particularly due to its wine trade. Additionally, it was a strategic territory for the English monarchy, and losing it would impact both England's economy and its political influence in France.

How did the English and French royal families' claims to lands in France evolve over time?

The English royal family, through figures like William the Conqueror and Henry II, acquired significant French territories. Over time, these lands were contested, and much of them were reclaimed by the French monarchy. By the time Edward III came to power, only Gascony remained in English hands.

What role did chivalry play in Edward III's reign?

Edward III embraced the culture of chivalry, surrounding himself with wealthy nobles, hosting tournaments, and promoting poetry and music. His court was designed to reflect the grandeur of King Arthur's Camelot, and chivalry became central to his rule.

How did Edward III challenge Roger Mortimer's control over England?

At the age of 17, Edward III gathered a group of friends and stealthily seized control of Roger Mortimer, the lover of his mother, who had been ruling in his stead. Edward's actions led to Mortimer's execution, restoring Edward's authority as king.

What was the significance of the battle between the Plantagenets and the Valois?

The conflict between the Plantagenets (the English royal family) and the Valois (the French royal family) was rooted in competing claims to territories in France. The Hundred Years' War was a long struggle for dominance, with both sides fighting for land, prestige, and royal legitimacy.

Why did the Flemish people support Edward III's claim to the French throne?

The Flemish supported Edward III's claim because they feared economic ruin if they lost access to English wool, which was essential for their textile industry. Edward's promise to defend their economic interests helped win their support in the conflict.

What role did the wool trade play in the Hundred Years' War?

The wool trade was a crucial part of England's economy and wealth, particularly because English wool was highly prized by the Flemish textile industry. The loss of this trade, threatened by Philip VI's actions, contributed to England's decision to go to war.

What were the key motivations behind King Philip VI's actions against Edward III?

King Philip VI's motivations were driven by the desire to assert control over Gascony, which was the last remaining English territory in France. He also sought to challenge Edward III's claim to the French throne, which was rooted in Edward's maternal connection to the French monarchy.

How did the Hundred Years' War contribute to the formation of England as a nation?

The Hundred Years' War played a crucial role in shaping England's sense of national identity. The conflict fostered a stronger sense of unity and purpose within England, while also defining its role in European politics and culture.