Battles & Campaigns · 1587
Battle of Coutras
Coutras, Gironde, France
What happened
Joyeuse ordered his cavalry to charge at full gallop, but their horses were tired by the time they reached the enemy. Henry had placed small groups of musketeers among his cavalry to add firepower. The Huguenot horsemen broke the royal lancers, and the royal army was routed.
Why it matters
It was one of the most important battles of the French Wars of Religion. Mixing musketeers with cavalry was a new tactic.
What came next
Henry of Navarre went on to win at Arques and Ivry as King Henry IV.
Did you know?
After the battle, Henry recovered Joyeuse's body and attended a mass for the dead.
Timeline
- 1585Henry III's edict renews war against the Protestants.
- 20 Oct 1587Battle of Coutras.
- Sep 1589Battle of Arques.
- 14 Mar 1590Battle of Ivry.