633. Joan of Arc: Saviour of France (Part 2) - The Rest is History Recap

Podcast: The Rest is History

Published: 2026-01-08

Duration: 56 minutes

Guests: Tom Holland, Dominic Sandbrook

Summary

Joan of Arc, a peasant girl claiming divine guidance, led French forces to lift the siege of Orléans, marking a turning point in the Hundred Years' War. Her leadership and fervent belief in her mission inspired troops and led to significant victories against the English.

What Happened

Joan of Arc, an illiterate peasant from Donremy, claimed to hear divine voices at the age of 13. By 1429, she had convinced the Dauphin, Charles of Valois, of her mission to save France from English domination. Despite having no military training, Joan set out to lead an army to lift the siege of Orléans in February 1429.

Joan's journey to meet the Dauphin was fraught with challenges, including a 250-mile trek mostly by night to avoid detection, ultimately reaching a shrine sacred to St. Catherine. Her unwavering belief and charisma secured her a meeting with the Dauphin, who, after some skepticism, endorsed her mission. Joan's purity was confirmed by a court examination, further legitimizing her divine mandate.

Equipped with a suit of white armor and a mysterious sword, Joan led a convoy of 3,000 men to Orléans. Her arrival was met with initial logistical setbacks, but her fervent prayers and strategic insight soon turned the tide. Joan's presence invigorated the French forces, leading to the capture of a key English fortress after a three-hour battle.

As Joan continued her campaign, she wrote letters to the English, commanding them to surrender. Her demands were met with scorn and threats from English commanders like Talbot, but her determination remained unshaken.

The siege of Orléans, which had lasted six months, was remarkably lifted within four days of Joan's intervention. Her leadership was instrumental in capturing the Priory and Tower of Les Tourelles, resulting in significant English casualties and the restoration of supply lines to the city.

Joan's success at Orléans was celebrated across France, with figures like Christine de Pisan writing poems in her honor. This victory was a pivotal moment in the Hundred Years' War, boosting French morale and setting the stage for future triumphs.

Key Insights