Aquitaine and the Kingdom of England: A Historical Analysis

Introduction

The relationship between the Duchy of Aquitaine and the Kingdom of England has long been a topic of historical discussion. Often, the misconception arises that Aquitaine was ever a part of the Kingdom of England, whereas its historical context reveals a more complex and nuanced relationship. This article aims to clarify the historical timeline and provide a clear understanding of the status and status issues of Aquitaine throughout its history.

The Early Period

Aquitaine's history began in the 6th century when it came under the control of the Frankish Kingdom, after King Clovis's victory over the Visigoths at the Battle of Vouille. Despite this, it was never a part of England. Instead, the English King inherited Aquitaine from his Plantagenet French ancestors and ruled it as a vassal of the French King, pledging allegiance to the latter.

Henry II Plantagenet and Aquitaine

The marriage of Henry II Plantagenet to Eleanor of Aquitaine in 1152 marked a significant turning point. Henry became the Duke of Aquitaine and, in 1154, acquired the Kingdom of England. However, this did not mean that Aquitaine was part of England; instead, it was part of Henry's extensive domains, held as a duchy under the authority of the French crown.

The Hundred Years' War

The Hundred Years' War further complicated the relationship between Aquitaine and England. During this conflict, which started in 1337 and ended in 1453, English and French monarchs contended for the French throne. Key points to note are: The Battle of Poitiers in 1356, where the English took King Jean II of France as a captive. Subsequently, the Treaty of Brétigny in 1360 led to the transfer of sovereignty over Aquitaine to England. In 1369, King Charles V of France declared war, claiming that the Treaty of Brétigny was not honored. In response, King Edward III of England denounced the treaty, reviving his claim to the French throne. The terms of the Treaty of Brétigny, which transferred Aquitaine to English sovereignty, were officially nullified by the two parties in 1369, leading to the resurgence of the Hundred Years' War.

Plantagenet Control of Aquitaine

Despite the nullification of the Treaty of Brétigny, Plantagenet control of Aquitaine endured for nearly a century more. However, the extent of English control gradually decreased as the French crown reclaimed lost territories.

Conclusion

In summary, while the Duchy of Aquitaine was held by English monarchs for a period, it was never a part of the Kingdom of England. The complexities of medieval politics and the interweaving of the Plantagenet dynasty's territories make this an interesting and often misunderstood aspect of European history. Understanding the historical context and the nuances of these relationships is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the period's dynamics.