The Siege of Orleans (1428-29) was a turning point in the Hundred Years’ War between France and England. It was Joan of Arc’s first major military victory and the first significant French success after being soundly defeated at Agincourt in 1415. Orleans had both symbolic and strategic importance to both sides. For half a year the English had the advantage but the siege failed nine days after Joan arrived.
The siege began on October 12, 1428. English forces already controlled several towns in the area with Orleans being the last major stronghold. For years, French prophecies foretold of an armed maid who would rescue France and so when word reached the citizens of Orleans of Joan of Arc’s journey, they were excited and relieved. In March, she joined the relief army which was being assembled. She sent the English forces two letters telling them to quit the siege, surrender all the cities and territories they occupied, and return to England.
Joan of Arc arrived with the relief army on the outskirts of Orleans on April 28, 1429 and entered the city the next day. For weeks Joan had heated arguments with those in charge of the city’s defenses over the best battle tactics. She pushed for an aggressive attack on the English forces and led an army (against orders not to do so) to Tourelles taking it back in several days of intense fighting in which she was wounded. Inspired by this victory, the French army went on the offensive eventually reaching English-held Paris.
