The Battle of Agincourt, fought on October 25, 1415, stands as one of the most famous and decisive engagements of the Hundred Years’ War between England and France. Marked by overwhelming odds, strategic brilliance, and legendary heroism, this battle immortalized King Henry V of England and reshaped medieval warfare, diplomacy, and the political landscape of Europe.

Historical Context: The Hundred Years’ War

The Hundred Years’ War (1337–1453) was a prolonged series of conflicts between the Kingdoms of England and France over claims to the French throne and territorial disputes. By 1415, the war had seen multiple phases of fighting, truces, and shifting alliances. Henry V, ascending to the English throne in 1413, was determined to renew English claims in France and restore national pride.

In the summer of 1415, Henry led an ambitious military campaign into northern France, landing at the port of Harfleur in August. After a hard-fought siege, Harfleur fell to the English in September, but Henry’s army was weakened by disease and attrition. His plan was to march his army across northern France to the English-held port of Calais, where reinforcements and supplies awaited.

The March to Agincourt

The march from Harfleur to Calais was perilous. Henry’s forces—estimated between 6,000 and 9,000 men—were tired, hungry, and vulnerable, pursued by a large French army intent on intercepting them. The French army, led by Constable Charles d’Albret and other nobles, numbered approximately 20,000 to 30,000 troops, heavily armored knights and infantry eager for battle.

The two armies met near the village of Agincourt (Azincourt in French), a narrow battlefield flanked by dense woods and muddy fields, conditions that would prove crucial to the English defense. shutdown123