Joan of Arc

Dauphin's Dilemma

The Dauphin, Charles VII, faced significant challenges in asserting his claim to the French throne during the Hundred Years War. The Treaty of Troyes had disinherited him, declaring him illegitimate to favor Henry V of England and his heirs. Despite controlling southern France, Charles struggled to expel the English from the north, earning him the derisive title "king of Buge" 1.

In 1422, both Charles VI and Henry V died within two months of each other. This left the one year old infant Henry VI as king of England and in theory, the king of France.

--- Gary Arndt

Charles's predicament was further complicated by the lack of control over key cities like Paris and Rheims, where French kings were traditionally crowned.

   

Strategic Marriages

Strategic marriages played a pivotal role in shaping the claims to the French throne during this tumultuous period. William the Conqueror's descendants, through strategic alliances, expanded their claims in France, culminating in the complex political landscape of the early 15th century. Henry V's marriage to Catherine of Valois, daughter of Charles VI, was a strategic move to solidify his claim to the French throne 1.

Henry did a masterful job on the battlefield, fighting the French. His biggest victory was at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415.

--- Gary Arndt

These alliances and treaties, such as the Treaty of Troyes, were instrumental in the ongoing conflict, influencing the balance of power between England and France.