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The Influence Of Joan Of Arc On European History

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Joan of Arc was a French warrior and martyr, who pledged herself to a holy life. This lifestyle shaped her quest to free French land from English control in the Hundred Years’ War. Ultimately, Joan and her religious conduct inspired a lasting effect on European history. Born in 1412 in Domrémy, France, Joan had firsthand experiences of the terrors of the Hundred Years’ War. However, from the darkness came light, as Joan began to hear the voices of the patron saints of France. She interpreted these revelations as a call to holy living, committing to virginity and piety (Paul). Joan said these voices demanded she helps Charles VII fight against England. Specifically, Joan set to rid the traditional coronation site (Reims, France) of English troops, …show more content…

After Joan’s urge to help was rejected twice by the royal governor of Vaucouleurs, she finally was admitted to meet with Charles VII. Subsequently, Charles VII accepted Joan’s divine mission, afterward providing her with a group of French soldiers. Preparing for battle at Orléans, Joan united her troops by daily prayer assemblies and advising them to go to confession (Paul). She was an inspiration, telling her soldiers: "'In God’s name, charge boldly!’” (Paul). Joan, rallying her troops, lead France to victory, evicting England from Orléans (Paul). She continued to inspire her troops to victory after victory, eventually leading to the siege of Reims, and the coronation of Charles VII. Joan, eager to act, looked to besiege France. However, in September of 1429, her efforts were unsuccessful, and Charles withdrew all French soldiers (Joan of Arc. Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th Edition). In the following Spring, Joan was captured by the Burgundians while attempting to reinforce soldiers in

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