Jean Poton de Xaintrailles facts for kids

Xaintrailles and La Hire shown in an old book.

Jean Poton de Xaintrailles (born around 1390 – died October 7, 1461) was a French nobleman from Gascony. He was one of the main helpers of Joan of Arc during the Hundred Years' War. He held important jobs for the king, like managing the royal horses and being a local governor. In 1454, he became a Marshal of France, which was a very high military rank. Jean Poton was a key leader for France in the long war against England.

Early Life and Battles

Jean Poton de Xaintrailles fought in the Battle of Verneuil in 1424. He was a brave soldier who often fought alongside La Hire, another famous French captain.

The Siege of Orléans

In 1429, Jean Poton joined Joan of Arc in the Siege of Orléans. This was a very important battle where the French tried to free the city of Orléans from English control. Their efforts helped end the siege, which was a big victory for France. Jean Poton was seriously hurt during this battle.

Capture and Exchange

In 1431, Jean Poton was captured by an English leader, the Earl of Warwick, near Beauvais. He was held as a prisoner until 1433, when he was traded for another important prisoner, John Talbot.

Fighting with Joan of Arc

Jean Poton fought many battles with Joan of Arc during the Loire Campaign, a series of battles along the Loire River. He was a loyal friend and supporter of Joan of Arc his whole life. After Joan was captured, he even tried to rescue her, but it didn't work. He thought Joan was being held in Compiègne and captured the city, but he found out she had already been moved to Rouen.

Later War Efforts

Jean Poton de Xaintrailles continued to play a big part in the later stages of the Hundred Years' War. He helped France take back Normandy and conquer Guyenne. He often worked with his friend, La Hire, including in the Battle of Gerbevoy. When France created a standing army in 1445, Xaintrailles was chosen to lead one of the new army's twelve companies.

He died in Bordeaux in 1461. He did not have any children, so he left his property to the church.

Popular Culture

Xaintrailles is a small character in the "Catherine" novels written by Juliette Benzoni.

See also

• Military history of France

In Spanish: Juan Poton de Xaintrailles para niños

Images for kids

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  A painting of Jean Poton de Xaintrailles.

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  The coat of arms of Jean Poton de Xaintrailles.