Table of Contents
The Hundred Years’ War was a prolonged conflict between England and France that lasted from 1337 to 1453. It significantly shaped the political landscape of medieval Europe and marked a turning point in the power dynamics between the two nations.
Background and Causes of the War
The roots of the Hundred Years’ War can be traced to disputes over territorial claims and succession rights. The death of the French king Charles IV in 1328 left the throne vacant, leading to tensions over who should succeed him. The English king Edward III claimed the French crown through his mother, but the French nobles favored Philip VI, a cousin of the last king.
Other contributing factors included economic conflicts, control of trade routes, and longstanding feudal loyalties. The war was also fueled by nationalistic sentiments and the desire for territorial expansion.
Major Phases and Battles
The war can be divided into several phases, marked by notable battles and shifts in momentum.
- The Edwardian War (1337–1360): Featured early battles like Crécy (1346) and Poitiers (1356), where English longbowmen and tactics gained prominence.
- The Caroline War (1369–1389): A period of renewed fighting with significant French resistance and internal conflicts in England.
- The Lancastrian War (1415–1453): Marked by Henry V’s victories at Agincourt (1415) and the eventual decline of English power in France.
Impact on French and English Power
The war had profound effects on both nations, altering their political and social structures.
Effects on France
France emerged as a more centralized state, strengthening the monarchy’s authority. The war fostered national identity and unity, especially after repelling English invasions.
Effects on England
England experienced a decline in its continental ambitions, leading to internal conflicts such as the Wars of the Roses. The war also contributed to the decline of the feudal system and the rise of a more modern, centralized monarchy.
Legacy of the Hundred Years’ War
The war’s end in 1453 marked the decline of medieval chivalry and the rise of early modern nation-states. It also influenced military tactics, technology, and national identities that persist today.
Understanding this conflict helps us grasp the development of modern Europe and the enduring importance of national sovereignty and identity.