In this episode, we explore how King Edward III of England initiated the Hundred Years' War by leveraging a dubious claim to the French throne, and examine the catastrophic consequences of his refusal to accept a political loss. We discuss the complexities of medieval succession law, the diplomatic failures that led to prolonged conflict, and the lasting impact of this extended war on both England and France.

Chapters

00:00 The Start of the Hundred Years' War

01:04 Medieval Succession Laws

03:19 Edward's Claim to the French Throne

07:05 Escalation to War

11:51 Early English Victories & Stalemate

18:19 Edward's Leadership Failure & Legacy