Joan of Arc (1412-1431)

A young woman driven by unwavering faith, Joan of Arc believed she was destined to save France. From the age of 13, Joan of Arc reported religious visions, which told her of her destiny to save France and see Charles VII crowned as King. As a teenager, Joan was able to convince Charles VII, the Dauphin of France at the time, that she was sent by God to support his cause and join the French army. It took many different tests, including having her examined by the clergy, and eventually Joan was given armor and a place in the military.

Carrying a banner instead of a sword into battle, Joan of Arc inspired the soldiers through her faith, raising morale and strengthening their resolve with impassioned speeches. During the siege of Orléans, military leaders wanted to retreat, but Joan convinced them that a more aggressive approach was needed. She encouraged the troops to reaffirm their faith in God and assured them that they would be victorious. Her words proved true, and the siege was lifted.

After the crowning of King Charles VII, Joan of Arc was captured by Burgundians, who tried her for heresy. During her trial, the English attempted to confuse her and cause her to incriminate herself. They underestimated the tact and intelligence of the 19 year old hero, and their efforts were wasted. When asked if she believed that God hated the English, she was recorded as saying “whether God may hate the English or may love the English, I know not. But I know I shall be driven forth from this realm by the King of France—all but those who shall die in the field.”

Convicted of heresy with no true evidence, Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in 1431. Joan called on God until her last breath, showing the onlookers that even at the end of her life, she put her soul in the hands of her God. In 1456 her conviction was overturned and in 1920, the Catholic church retried the case of Joan of Arc and canonized her as a saint. Her legacy remains as a martyr who died for what she believed in.

Sources:

World History Encyclopedia- Joan of Arc

Daniel Hobbins, The Trial of Joan of Arc