The Art of English Warfare: Strategy and Tactics, 1337-1360
Abstract:
The Hundred Years War was a dynastic conflict between the monarchies of England and France beginning in 1337 where Edward III of England believed he had a stronger claim to the French throne than Phillip IV of France. Once Edward declared war, 14th century England was, in comparison to 14th century France, less wealthy, outnumbered, and territorially inferior. England had long been engaged in a war with Scotland, its neighbor to the north, which was a constant drain on men, supplies, and money. However, by implementing a counter-intuitive blend of offensive strategy and defensive tactics, Edward III proved to be devastating on the field of battle against the French, ushering in the greatest period of military success England has ever seen. This was made possible by the English’s off field preparation with military organizations such as the Order of the Garter and the utilization of the military bible of the time, De Re Militari, the 4th century treatise by the Roman author Publius Flavius Vegetius Renatus.