Hundred Years' War

Definition

The Hundred Years' War was a series of conflicts fought between England and France from 1337 to 1453, primarily over territorial claims and the right to the French throne. This prolonged struggle significantly influenced the political, social, and military landscape of medieval Europe, marking a shift in warfare and the evolution of national identities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The war began when King Edward III of England claimed the French crown through his mother, leading to decades of conflict over dynastic rights.
2. Key battles during the war included Crécy (1346), Poitiers (1356), and Agincourt (1415), which showcased new military tactics and technologies such as the longbow.
3. The war led to significant social changes, including shifts in feudal loyalties as common soldiers gained prominence and nobility faced challenges to their authority.
4. The conflict concluded with the Treaty of Picquigny in 1475, establishing a fragile peace but ultimately solidifying France's status as a unified kingdom.
5. The Hundred Years' War fostered the growth of national identities in both England and France, marking a departure from feudal allegiances toward stronger centralized monarchies.

Review Questions

• How did the Hundred Years' War impact the role of chivalry and knighthood in medieval society?
  • The Hundred Years' War significantly altered the traditional role of chivalry and knighthood, as the conflict shifted from noble-led cavalry charges to reliance on infantry and new technologies like the longbow. This change diminished the romanticized ideals of knighthood centered on individual valor in jousting and tournaments. As common soldiers became crucial to military success, this led to a reevaluation of social status and challenged the exclusivity of chivalric culture.
• In what ways did the Hundred Years' War contribute to the decline of feudalism in England and France?
  • The Hundred Years' War contributed to the decline of feudalism as kings required larger, more professional armies instead of relying solely on feudal levies. This shift meant that monarchs began paying soldiers directly, which diminished the power of feudal lords who had previously controlled military service through their vassals. As common soldiers gained influence during the war, this ultimately weakened feudal ties and facilitated the rise of centralized royal authority.
• Evaluate the significance of Joan of Arc's role during the Hundred Years' War and how it reflects broader themes of national identity.
  • Joan of Arc's involvement in the Hundred Years' War is significant as she symbolized French nationalism and unity during a time of crisis. By leading troops to important victories, she inspired a sense of purpose among the French people and reinforced the idea of a collective national identity separate from feudal allegiances. Her legacy demonstrates how individual figures can influence broader societal themes, illustrating a shift towards national consciousness that emerged from prolonged conflict.

Related terms

Chivalry: A code of conduct associated with the medieval institution of knighthood that emphasized virtues such as bravery, honor, and respect for women.

Feudalism: A social and economic system prevalent in medieval Europe where land was held by lords who granted it to vassals in exchange for military service and loyalty.

Joan of Arc: A peasant girl who became a national heroine of France by leading French forces to several important victories during the Hundred Years' War, claiming divine guidance.