Joan of Arc

history · courage · France · medieval

Young Military Leader. Joan of Arc was only about 17 years old when she convinced the French king to let her lead his armies against England. She had never trained as a soldier, but she was so confident and brave that thousands of soldiers believed in her and followed her into battle.

Heard Divine Voices. Joan said that saints and angels spoke to her, telling her what she should do to save France. She truly believed God was guiding her, and this gave her incredible courage even when things seemed hopeless.

Won at Orléans. Joan's most famous victory was at the siege of Orléans, a crucial battle in the Hundred Years' War between France and England. After months of fighting, she helped her army defeat the English and turn the war in France's favor.

Made a King. Joan believed her mission was to see Charles VII crowned as the rightful king of France. She pushed for his coronation, and eventually the ceremony happened in the cathedral at Reims, which was a huge moment for the French nation.

Died as a Martyr. Joan was captured by enemies and put on trial for witchcraft and heresy. She was burned at the stake in 1431, and many people later saw her as a martyr who died for her country and her faith.