MiniArt 72003 French Foot Soldiers with Ram. XV c.

The Hundred Years' War is an armed conflict of 1337-1453 between France and England. It should be added here that it was interrupted by numerous truces and peace, but it did not end until 1453. At the beginning of the conflict, the French infantry was characterized by relatively good defensive armament in the form of chain mail, various types of helmets (e.g. caps), and used various types of handguns (e.g. pikes) and blunt weapons. The one-handed sword was most often used as a side weapon. The sources also certify that the French rulers of mercenary troops hired, for example, Genoese crossbowmen who took part in the Battle of Crecy in 1346. Of course, after the defeats at Crecy (1346), Poitiers (1356) or Agincourt (1415), attempts were made to draw conclusions from them and change the shape of the French troops, but it usually did not bring the desired results. Significant changes took place only during the reign of Charles VII (he reigned 1422-1461). First of all, he introduced units of archers modeled on the English (the so-called franc archers), who trained in archery on Sundays and public holidays. It was also aimed at having at least chain mail, but it was not a rule. Their number at the end of the 100 Years War could reach 6-8 thousand people. There was also a greater emphasis on training foot soldiers, introduced artillery to the line, and continued use of mercenary troops.