History of Warfare Summary 2 - The Hundred Years' War Part 5: Henry V and the Battle of Agincourt

In the late 14th century, both England and France were mired in political turmoil. In England, Richard II was deposed, and Henry IV ascended the throne. In France, the nobility's power struggles intensified as Charles VI's reign became unstable. Henry V, who became king in 1413, revived England's long-standing claim to the French throne. In 1415, he landed in France with his army. The French army pursued Henry's forces, leading to a battle at Agincourt. Although the French army had a significant numerical advantage, the battlefield had turned into a muddy quagmire after heavy rain, hindering the movement of heavily armored knights. The English army established a defensive formation and deployed longbowmen to attack the French. The repeated charges of the French knights proved ineffective, and the French army suffered immense casualties. Henry V achieved a decisive victory at Agincourt. This battle was a crucial event that laid the groundwork for England to once again threaten the French throne in the latter half of the Hundred Years' War.