Battle of Patay facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Patay
Part of the Loire Campaign of the Hundred Years' War
The French and English clashing. The English, however, did not fight on horseback
Date 18 June 1429 Location Near Patay, slightly north of Orléans, France Result Decisive French victory
Belligerents
Kingdom of France	Kingdom of England
Commanders and leaders
La Hire Jean de Xaintrailles Joan of Arc	John Fastolf John Talbot (POW)
Strength
1,500 cavalry	5,000
Casualties and losses
About 100	2,500 dead, wounded, or captured

The Battle of Patay was a very important battle that happened on 18 June 1429. It was part of the Hundred Years' War, a long conflict between France and England. This battle took place in north-central France, near a town called Patay.

The French army won this battle in a big way. The English army suffered heavy losses. Many English soldiers, especially those who used longbows, were killed. Several important English leaders were also killed or captured. This victory was a turning point in the war, giving the French a big advantage. Joan of Arc played a key role in leading the French to this success.

What Was the Hundred Years' War?

The Hundred Years' War was a series of conflicts between England and France. It lasted for more than 100 years, from 1337 to 1453. The main reason for the war was who should rule France. English kings believed they had a right to the French throne.

This long war had many battles and changed the history of both countries. It also led to new ways of fighting and new types of weapons.

Why Was the Battle of Patay Important?

The Battle of Patay was very important for several reasons. Before this battle, the English had been winning many fights. They had even taken control of much of France. The French morale was low.

However, after the French victory at Patay, things began to change. It showed that the French army could defeat the English. This win gave the French new hope and confidence. It also helped them take back more land from the English.

Who Was Joan of Arc?

Joan of Arc was a young French peasant girl. She believed that God had chosen her to lead France to victory against the English. She became a military leader for the French army.

Joan of Arc helped lift the siege of Orléans just before the Battle of Patay. Her leadership and belief inspired the French soldiers. She was a major reason for the French successes in 1429.

How Did the Battle Happen?

The Battle of Patay took place shortly after the French victory at Orléans. The English army was trying to regroup and stop the French advance. They had about 5,000 soldiers. The French had fewer soldiers, around 1,500 cavalry (soldiers on horseback).

The English set up their defenses, hoping to use their famous longbow archers. However, the French cavalry moved very quickly. They surprised the English before they could fully prepare their positions.

What Was the Result of the Battle?

The French cavalry charged the English lines. This quick attack broke the English formation. Many English soldiers were killed or captured. Around 2,500 English soldiers were lost. The French, however, lost only about 100 men.

This battle was a huge defeat for the English. It weakened their army and their control in France. It also boosted the French army's confidence. The Battle of Patay helped pave the way for more French victories in the Hundred Years' War.

Images for kids

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  The French and English Clashing; by this stage, the English knights normally fought dismounted

See also

In Spanish: Batalla de Patay para niños