Battle of Blanchetaque

The Battle of Blanchetaque: A Turning Point in History

Imagine a pivotal moment in history where the outcome could have been drastically different. The Battle of Blanchetaque, fought on August 24, 1346, was such an event. This battle was part of the larger Hundred Years’ War, a conflict that would shape the destinies of nations for centuries to come.

The Context: A War of Disputes and Ambitions

Back in 1345, King Edward III of England was planning an ambitious campaign against France. But Philip VI of France had anticipated this move, focusing his resources on northern France. The English army, estimated at 15,000 strong, sailed for Normandy but faced a storm that scattered them and delayed their advance.

During the early months of 1346, Edward’s forces were wreaking havoc in Gascony, capturing towns and defeating French armies. By March, Philip had assembled a large army to relieve Aiguillon, which was besieged by the English. The stage was set for a confrontation that would change the course of the war.

The Battle: A Test of Strategy and Skill

On August 24, as the English army approached the River Somme, they encountered a blocking force under Godemar du Fay at Blanchetaque. The river was a formidable obstacle, with only two fords that were passable twice each day due to its strong tidal current.

The French had defended the ford strongly, with 3,500 soldiers, including 500 men-at-arms and unknown numbers of mercenary crossbowmen. The English longbowmen, led by Hugh, Baron Despenser, started across the ford at dawn, facing heavy crossbow fire but continuing until they could wade through shallow water.

The French crossbowmen were no match for the English archery, which proved more effective than their crossbow shots. The English men-at-arms engaged French cavalry on the river’s edge in a disorderly mêlée, forcing the French back and creating space for the longbowmen to gain the riverbank.

The French broke, fleeing 6 miles away, with heavy casualties. After an hour and a half, the entire English army was across the ford, capturing stragglers and wagons from the French main army. The French halted at the river’s edge, then retreated 12 miles to Abbeville.

The Impact: A Strategic Victory

The Battle of Blanchetaque was a significant victory for the English. It demonstrated their superior tactics and the effectiveness of their longbowmen against the French crossbows. The heavy casualties on the French side, estimated at 2,000 soldiers killed in the battle and its aftermath, highlighted the vulnerability of the French forces.

After this victory, Edward marched his army to Crécy-en-Ponthieu, resupplying along the way, and laid siege to Calais. The fall of Calais after twelve months secured an English entrance into northern France for two hundred years, marking a turning point in the Hundred Years’ War.

As we reflect on the Battle of Blanchetaque, it serves as a reminder of the importance of strategic planning, adaptability, and the power of innovation. The outcome of this battle was not just a victory but a pivotal moment that shaped the course of history for generations to come.