Hundred Years' War

Definition

The Hundred Years' War was a prolonged conflict between England and France that lasted from 1337 to 1453, primarily over claims to the French throne and territorial disputes. This war significantly shaped the political landscape of both nations and marked a transition in warfare, society, and nationalism in Europe, reflecting broader global transformations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The war began in 1337 when King Edward III of England claimed the French crown based on his lineage through his mother, leading to decades of conflict.
2. Major battles during the Hundred Years' War include the Battles of Crécy (1346), Poitiers (1356), and Agincourt (1415), where the English longbowmen achieved notable victories.
3. The conflict saw the rise of national identities, as both English and French populations began to see themselves as distinct nations with shared histories.
4. The war also catalyzed significant military innovations, including the use of gunpowder and cannons, which changed the nature of warfare in Europe.
5. The end of the war in 1453 resulted in a decisive French victory and established France as a centralized power while marking the decline of English territorial ambitions in France.

Review Questions

• How did the Hundred Years' War influence the development of national identities in England and France?
  • The Hundred Years' War significantly influenced national identities by fostering a sense of unity among people within both England and France. As they rallied around their respective monarchs and faced a common enemy, citizens began to see themselves as part of a nation rather than subjects of a king. This emerging nationalism laid the groundwork for future political developments and conflicts in both countries.
• What were some key military innovations introduced during the Hundred Years' War, and how did they affect the outcome of battles?
  • The Hundred Years' War saw significant military innovations, such as the widespread use of longbows by English archers and the introduction of gunpowder-based weaponry like cannons. The longbow allowed smaller numbers of English soldiers to defeat larger French forces at key battles like Crécy and Agincourt. These innovations shifted military tactics and contributed to changing power dynamics between the two kingdoms.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Hundred Years' War on European politics and society after its conclusion in 1453.
  • The long-term effects of the Hundred Years' War on European politics and society were profound. The war led to the solidification of national identities in both England and France, setting precedents for future nation-states. It also spurred political centralization within France, allowing for stronger royal authority. Additionally, the societal shifts prompted by military advancements impacted how future wars were fought, leading to changes in recruitment, tactics, and technology that would shape European conflicts for centuries to come.

Related terms

Longbow: A powerful type of bow used by English archers during the Hundred Years' War, which played a crucial role in several English victories.

Joan of Arc: A French peasant girl who became a national heroine for her role in leading French forces to several important victories during the war, claiming divine guidance.

Treaty of Picquigny: A treaty signed in 1475 that marked a temporary peace between England and France, showcasing the ongoing diplomatic efforts after the war.