Treaty of Picquigny
Picquigny, on the Somme, near Amiens, France
What happened
King Edward IV of England and King Louis XI of France. Edward IV invaded France in 1475, but his ally the Duke of Burgundy did not help him. Instead of fighting, the two kings met on a specially built bridge, separated by a wooden grille. Louis paid Edward to go home, promised him a yearly pension, and agreed a seven-year truce and free trade.
Why it matters
Why it matters: It formally ended the Hundred Years' War, which had in practice been over since 1453. It also freed Louis to deal with his rival, the Duke of Burgundy.
What came next
Edward returned to England with his payment. Many people in both countries thought the treaty dishonourable.
Did you know?
Edward's brother, the future Richard III, called the treaty dishonourable and refused to join the talks, but he came to the celebrations afterwards.
Timeline
- 1475Edward IV invades France.
- 29 August 1475The two kings meet at Picquigny.