Story Highlights
- historical event: Many today are not even aware that, at one point in history, France was a single step away from entirely falling into the hands of the English. It was the time of the so-called Hundred Years War. The English were stronger on the battlefields, especially because of their special weapon – the longbow.
On this day one of the most shameful events in national history to the French took place. Namely, the English king Henry V entered the conquered capital of France – Paris. Today, many are not aware that, at one point in history, France was a single step away from entirely falling into the hands of the English. It was the time of the so-called Hundred Years War. The English were stronger on the battlefields, especially because of their special weapon – the longbow. It was a very powerful weapon for fighting at a distance. Skilled English longbowmen could shoot arrows probably even up to 360 meters. The arrows were so powerful that they could even penetrate the knights’ armor at short range. Long bows were about 2 meters long and required considerable strength and skill.
King of English Henry V conquered almost the entire northern France. French King Charles VI had serious health problems, so he could not effectively lead the French defense. He recognized Henry V as regent of France and gave him his daughter’s hand in marriage. Indeed, it was agreed that the future son of King of England and that French princess will inherit the French throne.
The success of Henry V was tremendous. He got a wife, power over France, and soon also a son who would inherit both thrones – English and French. On this day Henry V entered Paris, the former French capital. However, Henry’s luck was not long-lasting – he soon died of an illness, in France, at only 36 years of age. His son and heir, who was still a baby, really did inherit both thrones, but things were getting worse for the English. The movement, which was organized by St. Joan of Arc, eventually managed to liberate France from foreign rule.
