Robert Briquet facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Robert Birkhead (Briquet)
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|---|---|
| Allegiance | Mercenary |
| Rank | Captain |
| Battles/wars | Hundred Years War |
Robert Birkhead was a brave soldier who lived a long time ago, during a period called the Hundred Years War. He was a "mercenary captain," which means he led a group of soldiers who fought for money, not for a specific country. His adventures are even mentioned in old books like the Chronicles of Froissart.
Contents
Who Was Robert Birkhead?
Robert Birkhead was an English captain in the 1300s. He led a large group of soldiers known as a "Great Company." Sometimes, French writers spelled his name differently, like Briquet. But we know his real name was Birkhead from old agreements he signed.
The Tard-Venus: Unemployed Soldiers
After a peace treaty called the Treaty of Brétigny, many soldiers like Birkhead and his men lost their jobs. They became known as the "Tard-Venus" (which means "latecomers"). These groups roamed the French countryside. They often took supplies and money from towns.
Trouble in France
Because of the trouble these groups caused, Pope Innocent VI even tried to start a special mission to stop them. But it did not work very well. Robert Birkhead's group, with about 2,000 other soldiers, was active in areas like Macon, Lyon, and Forez in 1362.
Marching on Avignon
Later in 1362, Birkhead and some other captains decided to do something big. They separated from the main group. Their plan was to march on Avignon, a very rich city where the Pope lived. They hoped to get a lot of money from the Pope and his important church leaders. This was called demanding a "ransom."
A Surprise Attack
However, their plan did not go as expected. On June 3, 1362, their army was attacked. About 400 Spanish soldiers, led by Henry of Trastamara, surprised them at a place called Montpensier. Birkhead's group suffered a big defeat.
Later Life and Legacy
Even after this defeat, Robert Birkhead continued his life as a soldier. He was present at an important battle called the Battle of Najera. Before this battle, he was given the special title of "knight." Robert Birkhead passed away in late 1368. His story helps us understand what life was like for soldiers during the Hundred Years War.
