Battle of Poitiers

General

The Battle of Poitiers, 1356 was fought on 19 September 1356 during the Hundred Years' War.
An English army under the Black Prince defeated a larger French force and captured King John II of France.

Overview

Category	Details
Name of the Battle	Battle of Poitiers, 1356 / [[Battle of Poitiers, 1356
Date	19 September 1356
Location	Near Poitiers, France
Belligerents	England vs France
Commanders	Edward the Black Prince vs John II of France
Strength (Forces)	English: smaller field army; French: larger royal host
Primary Unit Types	Longbowmen, men-at-arms, cavalry
Outcome	Decisive English victory
Casualties (Estimate)	Heavy French losses; many nobles captured
Strategic Importance	Forced major negotiations and fiscal strain in France
Notable Features	Defensive use of terrain and disciplined dismounted combat
Historical Significance	One of England's greatest victories of the war

Historical Background

The battle occurred during English raiding campaigns through French territory aimed at forcing a decisive engagement.

Course of the Battle

French assaults failed to break the English position. Coordinated English counterpressure and archery disordered French formations, leading to collapse and capture of the king.

Consequences

John II of France was taken prisoner.
France entered a period of political and financial crisis.
Negotiations culminated in the Treaty of Brétigny (1360).

Legacy

Poitiers reinforced the reputation of English battlefield tactics developed at Crecy.