Battle of Poitiers

Definition

The Battle of Poitiers was a significant conflict fought on September 19, 1356, during the Hundred Years' War between England and France. This battle marked the second major English victory in the war, following the earlier Battle of Crécy, and showcased the effectiveness of English longbowmen against French knights. The outcome of Poitiers had far-reaching consequences for both nations, solidifying England's military reputation and leading to a power shift in the ongoing conflict.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Battle of Poitiers resulted in a decisive victory for the English forces, leading to the capture of French King John II.
2. The English army was significantly outnumbered, with approximately 6,000 troops compared to around 12,000 French soldiers.
3. English longbowmen were instrumental in the battle, effectively decimating French cavalry before they could engage in close combat.
4. The defeat at Poitiers contributed to a temporary period of instability within France, with widespread political implications following King John's capture.
5. Following the battle, a peace treaty known as the Treaty of London was eventually negotiated in 1360, which granted England significant territorial gains in France.

Review Questions

• How did the tactics used by English forces at the Battle of Poitiers reflect broader military strategies in the Hundred Years' War?
  • At the Battle of Poitiers, English forces employed effective tactics that highlighted their reliance on longbowmen and defensive positioning. This approach was part of a broader military strategy that emphasized ranged weaponry over traditional cavalry charges, which were characteristic of French tactics. The success at Poitiers illustrated how adapting to new forms of warfare could lead to significant victories against numerically superior foes.
• Discuss the significance of the Battle of Poitiers in shaping public perception and morale in both England and France during the Hundred Years' War.
  • The victory at Poitiers greatly boosted public morale in England, reinforcing national pride and confidence in their military capabilities. Conversely, it had a demoralizing effect on France, especially following the capture of King John II. This shift in perception had lasting impacts on both kingdoms; while England felt emboldened to continue its campaigns, France faced internal strife and challenges to its leadership due to perceived failures in defense against English aggression.
• Evaluate how the outcomes of battles like Poitiers influenced subsequent treaties and territorial negotiations between England and France during the Hundred Years' War.
  • The outcomes of significant battles such as Poitiers directly influenced treaties like the Treaty of London in 1360. After such a decisive victory for England, negotiations were skewed in favor of English interests, allowing them to secure substantial territorial gains. This pattern continued throughout the Hundred Years' War; military successes not only shaped battlefield strategies but also had critical implications for diplomatic relations and territorial disputes between England and France as they sought to assert their claims over contested regions.

Related terms

Hundred Years' War:

A series of conflicts waged from 1337 to 1453 between the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of France, rooted in territorial disputes and claims to the French throne.

Longbow: A powerful type of bow used by English archers that allowed them to shoot arrows with great force and accuracy, significantly influencing medieval warfare.

Edward, the Black Prince: The son of King Edward III of England, he played a crucial role in the English victories during the early phases of the Hundred Years' War, including at the Battle of Poitiers.