English Identity

• In 1337, Edward III claimed the French throne and declared war on France in order to maintain economy and power.
• The Hundred Years War was a series of battles between France and England from 1337 to 1453.
• Edward risked losing taxes as the French threatened to conquer Gascony [where wine was made - lots was sold in England and heavily taxed], and Flanders [where British wool was turned to cloth].
• Socially, the people of Britain were to lose business [eg. wool trade], and will have had to pay higher tax.
• Edward thought he had a better claim to the throne than the French king and the French had offered to help the Scots who were in conflict with Edward.
• Stage 1: 1337 - 1360

  • Edward III won battles at Crecy [1346] and Poitiers [1356] and gained control of Gascony & Calais.
• Stage 2: 1370

  • The French won back some land they lost.
• Stage 3: 1413 - 1453

  • Henry V became English king and led the English into the Battle of Agincourt in 1415. They defeated the French.
  • Henry then went on to conquer Normandy + tighten his grip on France.
  • After his death his son took over and the French got back the land they lost.
  • The French were inspired by Joan of Arc's leadership to regain control of their country.
• The Battle of Agincourt - 1415

  • The French attempted to charge at the English but thick mud and heavy armour prevented them, as well as wooden spikes set up by the English.
  • The French tried and failed to charge, unable to advance. Fire from English archers slaughtered the French.
• Short Consequences

  • France was devastated. Buildings, crops and animals were destroyed.
  • Soldiers & civilians on both sides were killed.
• Medium Consequences

  • France became unified under one king
  • England lost money and territory [eg. Normandy].
  • Some English people got wealthy from stealing from towns and villages.
  • The foot soldier became a key element to the army
  • Gunpowder, canons and handguns were utilised more in battle.
  • New system of taxation was introduced to France.
• Long Consequences

  • Increased nationalism for both sides.
  • English identity developed: saw itself separate from Europe due to having a common language and homeland.
  • The official English court language became English instead of French, unifying the country under 1 language.
  • England looked to conquer land outside of Europe.