Hundred Years' War

Definition

The Hundred Years' War was a prolonged conflict between England and France that lasted from 1337 to 1453, primarily over territorial disputes and claims to the French throne. This war brought significant political and economic changes to late medieval Europe, including shifts in power dynamics, changes in military tactics, and the rise of national identities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The war was marked by several key battles, including the Battle of Crécy (1346) and the Battle of Agincourt (1415), where English forces achieved significant victories against the French.
2. The conflict led to the development of more centralized monarchies in both England and France as each kingdom sought to mobilize resources and consolidate power.
3. Economic strain from the prolonged warfare caused social upheaval, including revolts such as the English Peasants' Revolt in 1381.
4. The introduction of new military technologies, such as cannons and gunpowder, transformed traditional warfare and diminished the effectiveness of feudal knights.
5. The war fostered a sense of national identity among both the English and French peoples, setting the stage for modern nation-states.

Review Questions

• How did the Hundred Years' War influence military tactics in late medieval Europe?
  • The Hundred Years' War brought significant changes in military tactics, particularly with the introduction of the longbow by English forces. This weapon allowed archers to shoot arrows with great speed and accuracy, leading to decisive victories against heavily armored knights. Additionally, the use of cannons began to emerge during this period, further altering how battles were fought and weakening traditional feudal structures.
• Analyze the social and economic impacts of the Hundred Years' War on both England and France.
  • The Hundred Years' War had profound social and economic impacts on both nations. In England, the heavy taxation required to fund the war led to widespread discontent, culminating in events like the Peasants' Revolt. In France, the devastation of war led to agricultural decline and population loss, which compounded economic struggles. Both countries experienced shifts in social hierarchies as new classes emerged due to changes in warfare and economy.
• Evaluate how the outcome of the Hundred Years' War contributed to the emergence of national identities in England and France.
  • The outcome of the Hundred Years' War was instrumental in solidifying national identities in both England and France. The English developed a strong sense of nationalism after their victories, particularly under figures like King Henry V. Conversely, France rallied behind figures like Joan of Arc, who symbolized unity and resistance against foreign rule. This newfound national pride ultimately laid the groundwork for modern nation-states, as people began to identify more with their country rather than local feudal lords.

Related terms

Longbow: A powerful weapon used by English archers during the Hundred Years' War, which significantly changed military tactics and contributed to English victories.

Joan of Arc: A French peasant girl who became a national heroine for her role in leading French forces during the later stages of the Hundred Years' War, inspiring a sense of unity and nationalism.

Treaty of Picquigny: A peace agreement signed in 1475 between England and France, which marked the end of hostilities and established a temporary truce following the conclusion of the Hundred Years' War.