The Battle of Agincourt: England's Triumph in France

The Battle of Agincourt, fought on October 25, 1415, stands as one of the most celebrated military victories in English history. It was a defining moment in the Hundred Years’ War, a prolonged conflict between England and France that spanned over a century. Agincourt not only showcased the military brilliance of King Henry V but also demonstrated the effectiveness of the English longbow against heavily armored French knights. The battle’s significance goes beyond a single day of combat—it influenced the course of the war, shaped national identities, and left an enduring legacy in both military history and cultural memory.

To fully understand Agincourt, one must first examine the broader conflict in which it took place. The Hundred Years’ War (1337–1453) was a series of intermittent battles and political struggles between England and France, primarily over territorial claims and the right to rule France. The origins of the war can be traced back to the complex feudal relationships of medieval Europe. The English monarchy held vast territories in France, including Aquitaine, a rich and strategically important region. However, growing tensions between the English and French crowns, combined with disputes over succession, led to open warfare.

A key factor in the war was the question of who had the legitimate right to the French throne. In 1328, the death of Charles IV of France left the French crown without a direct male heir. Under French succession laws, Philip VI of the House of Valois was chosen as king. However, England’s King Edward III, who was the grandson of a previous French king through his mother, claimed the throne as well. His assertion of this right in 1337 marked the official beginning of the Hundred Years’ War.

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Release date

Lydbog: 12. april 2025