What were the roles of the Dauphin and the Duke of Burgundy in the Hundred Years War?

What were the roles of the Dauphin and the Duke of Burgundy in the Hundred Years War?

The Dauphin and the Duke of Burgundy played significant roles in the Hundred Years War.

The Dauphin, who was the title given to the heir apparent to the French throne, had a crucial role in leading the French forces during the war. One of the most prominent Dauphins during the conflict was Charles, who later became Charles V of France. Charles played a vital role in organizing and commanding the French army, implementing new military strategies, and rallying the French nobility and commoners to resist the English invasion. His leadership and military prowess were instrumental in turning the tide of the war in favor of the French.

On the other hand, the Duke of Burgundy, a powerful feudal lord in the region of Burgundy, played a more complex role in the Hundred Years War. Initially, the Duke of Burgundy, Philip the Bold, supported the English cause and formed an alliance with them against the French crown. This alliance was primarily driven by political and territorial ambitions, as the Duke sought to expand his influence and control over French territories.

However, the Duke of Burgundy's alliance with the English was not without its challenges. The French monarchy, led by the Dauphin and later Charles V, made several attempts to reconcile with the Duke and bring him back into the French fold. These efforts were partially successful, as the Duke of Burgundy switched sides multiple times during the war, aligning himself with either the French or the English based on his own interests.

The shifting allegiances of the Duke of Burgundy had a significant impact on the outcome of the war. His support for the English at certain points allowed them to gain crucial advantages, while his eventual reconciliation with the French helped strengthen the French resistance and ultimately contributed to their victory.

In summary, the Dauphin played a central role in leading the French forces and organizing the resistance against the English, while the Duke of Burgundy's shifting alliances had a significant impact on the course of the war.