John the Blind's Death at Battle of Crécy, Hundred Years' War
| Military |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published:
4 min read
John the Blind, King of Bohemia and Count of Luxembourg, met his end during the Battle of Crécy, a key event in the Hundred Years' War between England and France. Having ascended to the Bohemian throne and holding the title of Count of Luxembourg, John's rule was marked by alliances and territorial disputes. Despite his blindness, which had worsened over the years, King John was resolved to join the battlefield.
At Crécy, the Anglo-French confrontation was intense, with English longbowmen playing a pivotal role. John, despite his impairment, chose to fight alongside the French forces under King Philip VI of France. A veteran warrior, and known for his valor, John's presence was meant to bolster the French morale.
The Battle of Crécy saw the English, commanded by King Edward III, utilize innovative tactics. The longbowmen decimated French cavalry charges, disrupting their formations. John, determined to fight, had himself tied to his knights, asking them to lead him into the fray. His participation was symbolic, an act of solidarity and leadership despite his inability to see.
John's death was a notable part of this clash. His end came amidst the chaos of battle, making it a poignant moment of chivalry and tragedy. Both sides recognized his bravery, and his death underscored the fierce commitment of medieval monarchs to their causes. The loss had reverberations beyond the battlefield, affecting morale and the dynastic politics of Europe.
In the context of Luxembourg, John's demise shifted power dynamics. His son, Charles IV, inherited the crown, becoming a significant figure in European politics. The Battle of Crécy itself marked a shift in military tactics and foreshadowed future engagements in the protracted conflict between England and France.
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Primary Reference: The Hundred Years' War. The Battle of Crecy August 26th, 1346 the ...

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