Joan Of Arc Causes

In times of war and despair people often look for a sign of better times to come; that sign can come in many forms and sometimes from the least likely of places; such was the case during the fifteenth century in what came to be known as the Hundred Years’ War (1337-1453) between France and England. The conflict between the two countries was long and arduous for both sides, and by 1420 the French were losing ground to the English who had taken control of their northern territories. With the French countryside now at the mercy of English troops and mercenaries the French army faced low morale and desertion among its ranks. Little did they know just a few years earlier a spark had been ignited in a young French girl who believed she was destined to lead the army to victory in battle and aid Charles V’s son and heir to his rightful place on the throne; that young girl was Joan of Arc (Jeanne d'Arc) who became known as the Maid of Orléans and the savior of France.

Joan’s ability to mobilize an army based solely on the belief she was divinely guided to save France from English occupation and aid Charles, the Dauphine, to become Charles VII, King of France, is a testament to her fortitude and dedication. Joan faced many obstacles, both personal and political in addition to her military victories and defeats, but she would not let them divert her from her divinely inspired mission which effectively secured her place in history as a religious and national heroine, as well as becoming an inspiration to others around the