• History -> Middle Ages and Feudalism

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Are there any modern-day consequences of the Hundred Years War that can still be felt today?

Trinidad Morby

Hey there!

To answer your question, there are indeed several modern-day consequences of the Hundred Years War that can still be felt today. As you might already know, the war was a series of conflicts fought between England and France over the control of the French throne and territory, and it lasted from 1337 to 1453. Despite its end being over 500 years ago, several of its outcomes have had long-lasting impacts on Europe and the world.

One of the most notable consequences of the Hundred Years War was the decline of feudalism in Europe. During the middle ages, feudalism was the social, political, and economic system on which society was based, in which lords granted land to vassals in exchange for military service and loyalty. The Hundred Years War, however, required huge amounts of financial support, and the costs associated with the war led to a decline in the feudal system. Many lords were forced to sell or mortgage their lands, and the king had to rely on taxes to finance the war. This was a significant shift in the way Europe was organized and marked the beginning of a more centralized government structure.

Another consequence of the Hundred Years War is the rise of nationalism in both England and France. The conflict created a common enemy for both nations, and the intensity of the conflict fueled a sense of patriotism and national identity in both countries. As the French rallied behind Joan of Arc and the English developed their own national pride, the idea of a unified nation became more significant. This culminated in the formation of modern-day nation-states.

The Hundred Years War was also a significant turning point in military history. The war began with medieval-style battles but ended with the rise of gunpowder and new military tactics. These new changes in warfare led to a more efficient, organized, and deadly type of combat. Some scholars argue that the conflict was responsible for the rise of the professional army and the use of standing armies in Europe.

Lastly, the war left a huge economic impact on both England and France. The war drained both nations of resources, money, and manpower. France was left with a ruined infrastructure and a broken economy, which set the stage for the French Revolution nearly 350 years later. England's economic state was also damaged by the long war, which forced the country to borrow heavily from foreign sources, which destabilized the economy until the end of the Tudor period.

In conclusion, the Hundred Years War was a monumental event in history that led to several long-lasting consequences. Its impact has been felt in Europe and the world, from political structures to economics and culture. The war served as a catalyst for change in many ways, which helped shape the world we live in today.