Rouen Surrenders to Henry V of England: January 19, 1419

On January 19, 1419, the city of Rouen, a key stronghold in Normandy, surrendered to King Henry V of England, marking a significant milestone in the Hundred Years’ War. This event was a pivotal moment in Henry V’s campaign to assert English claims over French territories, a conflict that had been ongoing since 1337.

Context and Background

The Hundred Years’ War was a series of conflicts waged between the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of France, primarily over claims to the French throne. The war saw intermittent periods of peace and resumed hostilities, with both sides experiencing victories and setbacks.

Henry V, who ascended to the English throne in 1413, was determined to revive English claims in France. His military prowess was demonstrated at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, where his forces achieved a decisive victory against the French, significantly boosting English morale and weakening French resistance.

The Siege of Rouen

Rouen, the capital of Normandy, was a strategic and symbolic target for Henry V. The siege began in July 1418, as Henry sought to consolidate his control over Normandy. The city was well-fortified and defended by a determined French garrison, making the siege a protracted and grueling affair.

Henry’s forces employed a blockade strategy, cutting off supplies and reinforcements to the city. The siege was marked by severe hardships for the inhabitants of Rouen, who faced starvation and disease as the English tightened their grip.

Surrender and Aftermath

After months of attrition, the defenders of Rouen, led by the city’s governor Guy le Bouteiller, were compelled to negotiate terms of surrender. On January 19, 1419, the city capitulated to Henry V. The terms were harsh but not excessively punitive; the citizens were allowed to leave the city, but they had to pay a substantial ransom.

The fall of Rouen was a significant victory for Henry V, effectively completing his conquest of Normandy. It solidified English control over the region and demonstrated Henry’s strategic acumen and determination.

Broader Historical Significance

The capture of Rouen had far-reaching consequences in the context of the Hundred Years’ War. It bolstered English claims in France and paved the way for the Treaty of Troyes in 1420, which recognized Henry V as the heir to the French throne. This treaty, however, was contested and ultimately led to further conflicts after Henry’s death in 1422.

The siege and surrender of Rouen exemplified the brutal nature of medieval warfare and the complex political landscape of the time. It underscored the shifting power dynamics between England and France and set the stage for future engagements in the protracted struggle for dominance in Western Europe.

In summary, the surrender of Rouen on January 19, 1419, was a decisive moment in the Hundred Years’ War, showcasing Henry V’s military leadership and altering the course of the conflict in favor of the English.