What were the key political alliances during the Hundred Years War?

During the Hundred Years War, several key political alliances emerged that played a significant role in shaping the conflict. These alliances can be categorized into two main groups: the English alliances and the French alliances.

1. English Alliances:
a) England and Burgundy: The English formed a crucial alliance with the powerful Duchy of Burgundy. This alliance was established in 1420 through the Treaty of Troyes, which recognized Henry V of England as the heir to the French throne and married him to Catherine of Valois. The alliance with Burgundy provided England with military support and access to valuable resources, enabling them to maintain a strong presence in France.

b) England and Portugal: England also formed an alliance with Portugal in 1373 through the Treaty of Windsor. This alliance was primarily aimed at countering the influence of France and Castile in the Iberian Peninsula. Portugal provided England with naval support and served as a base for English military operations against France.

2. French Alliances:
a) France and Scotland: France had a longstanding alliance with Scotland, known as the Auld Alliance, which was established in the late 13th century. This alliance was primarily aimed at countering English influence in both countries. Scotland provided France with military support, particularly through the use of Scottish archers, who were highly regarded for their skill in longbow warfare.

b) France and Castile: France formed an alliance with the Kingdom of Castile in 1369 through the Treaty of Toledo. This alliance was primarily aimed at countering English influence in the Iberian Peninsula. Castile provided France with military support and served as a base for French military operations against England.

c) France and various smaller French states: Throughout the war, France formed alliances with several smaller French states, such as Brittany, Anjou, and Armagnac. These alliances were crucial in maintaining French unity and countering English territorial gains. These states provided France with military support and resources, helping to resist English advances.

Overall, these key political alliances played a crucial role in shaping the Hundred Years War, determining the balance of power and influencing the strategies and outcomes of the conflict.