Battle of Patay
Near Patay, Loiret, France
What happened
French forces under La Hire and Jean de Xaintrailles fought an English army under John Talbot and Sir John Fastolf. During the Hundred Years' War, Talbot hid archers to ambush the advancing French, but a stag gave away their position. The French vanguard attacked the exposed English from the sides, and the English army broke and fled. Talbot was captured, but Fastolf escaped.
Why it matters
Why it matters: It destroyed the English field army in central France and cost England many experienced commanders. The English position in France never recovered.
What came next
The French marched to Reims, where the Dauphin was crowned Charles VII on 17 July 1429. The Hundred Years' War went on until 1453.
Did you know?
Shakespeare's play Henry VI, Part 1 includes a cowardly knight based on Fastolf, spelled 'Falstaffe' in early printings.
Timeline
- 6 November 1380John Fastolf is born.
- 18 June 1429The French win at Patay.
- 17 July 1429Charles VII is crowned at Reims.
- 1442The Order of the Garter clears Fastolf of cowardice.
- 1453The Hundred Years' War ends.