James Baquet Let’s discuss the end of Hundred Years War. The war lasted 116 years, from 1337 to 1453. In July of that final fateful year, the French at last achieved victory at Castillon, ensuring that France would remain in the hands of the French. The issue at hand was: Who had the right to rule France? Five generations of English and French rulers had fought over control of the country. In the last generation, these were Henry VI of England (who from 1422 to 1453 had also reigned as King Henry II of France); and Charles VII of France, called “Charles the Victorious.” In fact, Charles’ forces had been largely successful in regaining control of the country from the English two years before Castillon, in 1451. But the people of Bordeaux, who had been subject to the English for 300 years, considered themselves English and urged Henry to recapture their province and become their king again. So in late 1452, Henry’s general John Talbot landed with 3,000 men, and restarted the war. With the help of the townspeople he easily retook the city, and extended English influence even further by the end of the year. But by spring 1453, Charles was ready to strike back. The French forces laid siege to the city of Castillon in early July. Talbot marched from Bordeaux on July 16, and achieved a small victory early the next day. Expecting reinforcements, Talbot pressed his advantage — but met a stronger force than he had anticipated. Once he had sent his men into battle, however, it seems pride prevented him from calling them back. As the English reinforcements trickled in, the French guns made short work of them. This is said to be the first major battle in Europe in which heavy use of field artillery determined the outcome. When French reinforcements arrived, the English army’s fate was sealed. Both Talbot and his son died in the battle. Though there was some subsequent action, lasting into October, there was never any doubt that the French were now in charge. It was only in hindsight that both sides realized the Hundred Years War had actually ended at Castillon. Vocabulary: Which word above means: 1. built on his success 2. that was happening 3. future was determined 4. having far-reaching consequences 5. took care of (something) quickly 6. under the control of 7. by looking back 8. expected 9. getting back 10. arrived bit by bit | 