Battle of Poitiers (1356) facts for kids
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The Battle of Poitiers in 1356 was a very important battle during the Hundred Years' War. It was one of the biggest victories for England against France. During this battle, the English army, led by Edward, the Black Prince, managed to capture King John II of France. This was a huge event that changed the course of the war for a while.
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What Was the Hundred Years' War?
The Hundred Years' War was a long series of fights between England and France. It actually lasted for more than 100 years, from 1337 to 1453. The main reason for the war was that English kings claimed they should also be kings of France. This led to many battles and a lot of changes for both countries.
Who Were the Main Leaders?
Edward, the Black Prince
Edward, the Black Prince, was the eldest son of King Edward III of England. He was a very skilled military leader. He earned his nickname, "the Black Prince," possibly from his black armor or his fierce reputation. He was known for his bravery and smart battle plans. At Poitiers, he led the English army to a surprising victory.
King John II of France
King John II was the ruler of France during this time. He was also known as John the Good. He personally led the French army at the Battle of Poitiers. Unfortunately for him, he was captured by the English during the fighting. This was a huge blow to France and its people.
Where and When Did the Battle Happen?
The Battle of Poitiers took place on 19 September 1356. It happened near the city of Poitiers in western France. The English army was on a long raid through French territory. They were trying to get back to their safe areas when the French army caught up with them.
How Did the Battle Unfold?
The English Army's Position
The English army was smaller than the French army. Edward the Black Prince chose a strong defensive position. His soldiers were on a ridge, with hedges and marshy ground protecting their sides. This made it hard for the French to attack them directly.
The Role of English Longbowmen
The English had many skilled longbowmen. These archers were very important in their victories. They could shoot arrows quickly and with great power. At Poitiers, the longbowmen fired thousands of arrows at the advancing French knights. The arrows could even pierce armor at close range.
French Attacks and Their Challenges
The French army had many knights on horseback. They tried to charge the English lines. However, the English position and the arrows from the longbowmen made these charges very difficult. The French knights struggled to get through the defenses. Many were killed or wounded before they could reach the English soldiers.
The Capture of King John II
As the battle continued, the fighting became very intense. King John II of France fought bravely on foot. He was surrounded by his loyal knights. However, the English forces eventually broke through. King John II was captured along with his youngest son, Philip. This was a major turning point in the battle.
What Was the Outcome and Its Impact?
The Battle of Poitiers was a huge victory for England. It showed the power of the English longbow and smart tactics. The capture of King John II was a massive event. It caused great problems for France. The country had to pay a huge ransom to get their king back. This battle also led to the Treaty of Brétigny in 1360. This treaty gave England control over more French land for a time.
Images for kids
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Edward, the Black Prince -
Contemporary image of John II -
A town being sacked -
The Battle of Poitiers -
A modern replica of a bodkin point arrowhead used by English longbows to penetrate armour -
A crossbowman of the period, reloading -
The Battle of Poitiers; the Oriflamme can be seen on the top left. -
John II being captured -
France after the 1360 Treaty of Brétigny; French territory in green, English territory in pink
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See also
In Spanish: Batalla de Poitiers (1356) para niños
