Siege of Bordeaux (1453)

The Siege of Bordeaux in 1453 was the final engagement of the Hundred Years' War, effectively ending English rule in Aquitaine and marking a decisive victory for France. Following an earlier period of relative peace and prosperity under English control, the citizens of Bordeaux, historically favorable to the English crown due to lucrative wine trade agreements, revolted against French rule in 1452, encouraged by the promise of English reinforcements and the return of John Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, a renowned English commander.

Talbot arrived with a small force and initially enjoyed some success in recapturing territory. However, the French, under the command of Charles VII, assembled a formidable army and laid siege to the city of Castillon. Talbot, against the advice of his commanders, marched to relieve Castillon.

The resulting Battle of Castillon on July 17, 1453, proved disastrous for the English. The French army, equipped with powerful artillery, inflicted heavy casualties on Talbot's advancing forces. Talbot himself was killed in the battle, and his death effectively crushed any remaining English hopes of maintaining their foothold in Aquitaine.

The French then turned their attention to Bordeaux, which was now isolated and demoralized. After a siege lasting several months, the city surrendered to the French on October 19, 1453. The terms of surrender were relatively lenient, though heavy fines were imposed on the city's leaders, and many English sympathizers were expelled.

The Siege of Bordeaux concluded the Hundred Years' War and solidified French dominance over the region, marking the end of English territorial ambitions on the European continent. The event is significant not only for its military consequences but also for its political and economic ramifications, reshaping the balance of power between England and France for centuries to come.