History The Hundred Years War Questions Long
The Hundred Years War, which lasted from 1337 to 1453, was a series of conflicts between the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of France. Throughout the war, several diplomatic efforts were made to bring an end to the hostilities. These efforts can be categorized into three main phases: the early attempts at peace, the Truce of Leulinghem, and the final peace treaties.
During the early years of the war, both sides made several attempts to negotiate a peaceful resolution. In 1356, the Treaty of Bretigny was signed, which temporarily ended the war. This treaty recognized English territorial gains in France and secured the release of the captured French King John II. However, the peace was short-lived, and hostilities resumed in 1369.
In 1389, a significant diplomatic effort was made with the Truce of Leulinghem. This truce, negotiated by Richard II of England and Charles VI of France, established a nine-year period of peace. It aimed to provide relief to the war-weary populations and allow for negotiations towards a permanent peace settlement. However, the truce was repeatedly violated by both sides, and the war continued.
The final phase of diplomatic efforts to end the Hundred Years War began in the early 15th century. In 1419, the Treaty of Troyes was signed, which recognized Henry V of England as the heir to the French throne and effectively disinherited the Dauphin, the legitimate heir. This treaty aimed to bring a lasting peace by uniting the two kingdoms under English rule. However, the death of Henry V in 1422 and the subsequent rise of the Dauphin as Charles VII led to the rejection of the Treaty of Troyes by the French.
The turning point in the war came in 1429 when Joan of Arc, a young French peasant girl, played a crucial role in the French victories. Inspired by her leadership, Charles VII was crowned King of France in Reims, solidifying his legitimacy and rallying support for the French cause. This event marked a significant shift in the war and led to renewed diplomatic efforts.
In 1435, the Congress of Arras was held, where negotiations took place between the English and the French. The congress resulted in the Treaty of Arras, which ended the alliance between England and Burgundy, a key English ally. This weakened the English position and further isolated them diplomatically.
Finally, in 1453, the Hundred Years War came to an end with the French victory at the Battle of Castillon. The war had exhausted both sides, and the English were unable to sustain their military presence in France. The conflict was officially concluded with the Treaty of Picquigny in 1475, which confirmed French sovereignty and marked the end of English territorial claims in France.
In conclusion, the diplomatic efforts to end the Hundred Years War involved various treaties, truces, and negotiations. While some temporary agreements were reached, it was not until the French regained their unity and military strength that a lasting peace was achieved. The war had a profound impact on both countries, shaping their histories and laying the groundwork for future conflicts.