History The Hundred Years War Questions Medium
During the Hundred Years War, which lasted from 1337 to 1453, several key political and military alliances played a significant role in shaping the conflict. These alliances can be categorized into two main groups: the English alliances and the French alliances.
On the English side, the key political and military alliance was formed between England and the Duchy of Burgundy. This alliance was established in 1360 through the Treaty of Brétigny, which temporarily ended the war. The alliance was further solidified in 1420 with the Treaty of Troyes, where Henry V of England married Catherine of Valois, the daughter of King Charles VI of France. This alliance aimed to secure English control over French territories and establish a dual monarchy with Henry V as the heir to the French throne.
Another important English alliance was with the Kingdom of Portugal. In 1386, England and Portugal signed the Treaty of Windsor, which created a military alliance against their common enemy, France. This alliance allowed England to use Portuguese ports as bases for their military operations and provided them with valuable naval support.
On the French side, the key political and military alliance was formed between France and Scotland. This alliance was established in 1295 through the Auld Alliance, a mutual defense pact against England. Scotland provided military support to France throughout the war, sending troops and engaging in various military campaigns alongside the French forces.
Additionally, France formed alliances with several other European powers to counter English influence. The most notable of these alliances was with the Kingdom of Castile in Spain. In 1372, France and Castile signed the Treaty of Burgos, which aimed to support each other against England. Castilian naval forces played a crucial role in the French victory at the Battle of La Rochelle in 1372.
Overall, these key political and military alliances during the Hundred Years War significantly influenced the course of the conflict. They provided military support, strategic advantages, and diplomatic backing to the involved parties, shaping the outcomes and determining the balance of power between England and France.