The Hundred Years' War, a lengthy conflict between England and France, stemmed from a mix of dynastic, economic, and political factors. The dispute over the French throne, tensions in the wool trade, and feudal rivalries all played key roles in igniting this prolonged struggle.

Key battles like Crécy, Poitiers, and Agincourt showcased English military prowess, while figures such as Edward III, the Black Prince, and Joan of Arc left lasting impacts. The Treaty of Brétigny briefly paused the conflict, reshaping territorial control and the balance of power between the two nations.

Causes of the Hundred Years' War

Causes of Hundred Years' War

• Dynastic factors
  • Dispute over the French throne succession arose when Charles IV of France died without a direct male heir in 1328
  • Edward III of England claimed the French throne through his mother, Isabella, sister of Charles IV, asserting his dynastic rights
  • French nobility favored Philip VI of the House of Valois, invoking the Salic law which excluded female succession and inheritance
• Economic factors
  • Wool trade tensions between England and Flanders, a key French vassal, as English wool was vital to the Flemish textile industry
  • English desire to control the lucrative Gascon wine trade, a major source of revenue for the English crown
  • Competition for control over the English Channel and maritime trade routes, crucial for both nations' economic interests
• Political factors
  • Ongoing rivalries and feudal disputes between English and French nobility, stemming from complex feudal obligations and conflicting loyalties
  • English possession of Gascony as a French fief, leading to conflicts of loyalty and sovereignty disputes
  • French support for Scotland in its wars against England, straining Anglo-French relations and prompting English retaliation

Key battles and turning points

• Battle of Crécy (1346)
  • Decisive English victory showcasing the effectiveness of the longbow against French cavalry, with English archers decimating the French ranks
  • Marked the decline of chivalric warfare and the rise of infantry-based tactics, challenging traditional military strategies
• Battle of Poitiers (1356)
  • Another significant English victory, resulting in the capture of the French king John II, a major blow to French morale and leadership
  • Led to the Treaty of Brétigny, temporarily pausing the conflict and granting England significant territorial gains in France
• Battle of Agincourt (1415)
  • Crucial English victory under Henry V, despite being outnumbered by the French, thanks to superior tactics and the devastating impact of the longbow
  • Demonstrated the continued superiority of English longbowmen and tactical prowess, solidifying England's military reputation

Influential figures in the conflict

• Edward III of England
  • Initiated the Hundred Years' War by asserting his claim to the French throne, setting the stage for the prolonged conflict
  • Oversaw key English victories at Crécy and Poitiers, establishing England as a major military power on the continent
• Edward, the Black Prince
  • Son of Edward III and renowned military commander, earning his nickname for his dark armor and fearsome reputation
  • Played a pivotal role in the victories at Crécy and Poitiers, leading English forces with skill and bravery
  • His death in 1376 weakened the English position in the later stages of the war, depriving England of a capable leader
• Joan of Arc
  • French peasant girl who claimed divine guidance to support Charles VII of France, inspiring French troops with her faith and leadership
  • Contributed to the lifting of the Siege of Orléans in 1429, a major turning point in the war that boosted French morale
  • Her capture and execution by the English in 1431 made her a martyr and symbol of French resistance, galvanizing French efforts

Treaty of Brétigny's impact

• Treaty of Brétigny (1360)
  • Signed following the Battle of Poitiers and the capture of John II of France, reflecting England's strong bargaining position
  • England gained significant territories in France, including Gascony, Calais, and Ponthieu, expanding its continental holdings
  • Edward III renounced his claim to the French throne in exchange for these territories, temporarily resolving the dynastic dispute
  • France had to pay a substantial ransom for the release of John II, straining its financial resources and political stability
• Impact on the balance of power
  • The treaty temporarily halted the conflict and allowed both sides to regroup, but failed to address underlying tensions
  • England emerged as a major continental power, controlling large parts of France and enjoying enhanced prestige
  • France faced internal struggles and the need to rebuild its military and financial resources, weakening its position
  • The peace was short-lived, as hostilities resumed in 1369, leading to the second phase of the war and further challenges for both nations