The Year of the Battle of Poitiers: 1356
The Battle of Poitiers was a significant event that took place during the Hundred Years’ War, a protracted conflict between the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of France. The battle occurred in western France, approximately 5 miles south of the city of Poitiers. It is recognized as a major turning point in the war and had lasting implications for both sides involved.
Battle Details
The Battle of Poitiers pitched the French army, commanded by King John II, against an Anglo-Gascon force led by Edward, the Black Prince. The French army was composed of around 14,000 to 16,000 soldiers, while the Anglo-Gascon force numbered approximately 6,000.
Course of the Battle
During the Battle of Poitiers, the French launched multiple assaults on the defensive position held by the Anglo-Gascon forces near Poitiers. The first assault consisted of heavily armored cavalry, crossbowmen, infantry, and dismounted men-at-arms. However, the Anglo-Gascons successfully defended their position by fighting entirely on foot and managed to repel the French attacks.
Throughout the battle, there was confusion and division among the French ranks, which further hindered their efforts. A pivotal moment occurred when a small mounted Anglo-Gascon force appeared behind the French, causing panic and leading to the collapse of the French army.
Outcome
The consequences of the Battle of Poitiers were significant. King John II of France, along with one of his sons, was captured during the battle, along with an estimated 2,000 to 3,000 men-at-arms. The French army suffered heavy losses, with approximately 2,500 men-at-arms killed and either 1,500 or 3,800 common infantry killed or captured.
Following their defeat, the surviving French soldiers dispersed, while the victorious Anglo-Gascons continued their withdrawal to Gascony.
Overall, the Battle of Poitiers marked a major triumph for the Anglo-Gascon forces and dealt a severe blow to the French during the Hundred Years’ War.
Sources:
- Britannica. “Battle of Poitiers.” Available at: https://www.britannica.com/event/Battle-of-Poitiers-French-history-1356
- Wikipedia. “Battle of Poitiers.” Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Poitiers
- British Battles. “Battle of Poitiers.” Available at: https://www.britishbattles.com/one-hundred-years-war/battle-of-poitiers/
FAQs
When did the Battle of Poitiers take place?
The Battle of Poitiers occurred on September 19, 1356.
Where did the Battle of Poitiers happen?
The battle took place in western France, approximately 5 miles south of the city of Poitiers.
Who were the opposing forces in the Battle of Poitiers?
The French army, commanded by King John II, faced an Anglo-Gascon force led by Edward, the Black Prince.
How many soldiers were involved in the Battle of Poitiers?
The French army consisted of around 14,000 to 16,000 soldiers, while the Anglo-Gascon force numbered approximately 6,000.
What was the outcome of the Battle of Poitiers?
King John II of France was captured during the battle, along with one of his sons and between 2,000 and 3,000 men-at-arms. The French army suffered heavy losses, with approximately 2,500 men-at-arms killed and either 1,500 or 3,800 common infantry killed or captured.
How did the Battle of Poitiers impact the Hundred Years’ War?
The Battle of Poitiers marked a turning point in the Hundred Years’ War, as it dealt a significant blow to the French and boosted the morale of the English. It demonstrated the military prowess of the English and weakened the French position in the war.
Who were the key commanders in the Battle of Poitiers?
The main commanders in the battle were Edward, the Black Prince, who led the Anglo-Gascon forces, and King John II of France, who commanded the French army.
What were the casualties of the Battle of Poitiers?
The French suffered heavy casualties, with a large number of men-at-arms and common infantry killed or captured. The exact numbers vary, but estimates suggest that thousands of French soldiers were lost in the battle.