History The Hundred Years War Questions Medium
Joan of Arc played a significant role in the Hundred Years War as a military leader and a symbol of French resistance against English domination. Born in 1412 in Domrémy, France, Joan claimed to have received divine visions instructing her to support Charles VII, the uncrowned Dauphin of France, in his quest to reclaim the French throne from the English.
In 1429, at the age of 17, Joan convinced Charles VII to allow her to lead a military campaign to lift the English siege of Orléans. Despite her lack of military training and experience, Joan inspired the French troops with her unwavering faith and determination. Under her guidance, the French forces achieved a series of victories, leading to the coronation of Charles VII as the rightful king of France in Reims.
Joan's military successes and her role in the coronation of Charles VII boosted French morale and provided a turning point in the war. However, her luck eventually ran out, and she was captured by the Burgundians, who sold her to the English. In 1431, Joan was put on trial by the English-controlled Church court on charges of heresy and witchcraft. Despite her courageous defense, she was found guilty and burned at the stake at the age of 19.
Joan of Arc's martyrdom further solidified her status as a national hero and symbol of French resistance. Her actions during the Hundred Years War not only had a direct impact on the military outcome but also played a crucial role in shaping French national identity and pride. Joan's legacy continues to inspire people around the world, and she was later canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1920.