Joan of

Arc

1412 — 1431

Joan of Arc was a French peasant girl who, at the age of 17, played a significant role in the Hundred Years' War between France and England. Claiming to have received divine visions, she believed she was called by God to help the French crown reclaim territory from the English and to ensure the coronation of the dauphin, who later became King Charles VII.

After leading Charles VII to his coronation in Reims, Joan was eventually captured by the Burgundians, allies of the English. She was handed over to the English, who put her on trial for heresy and other charges. Despite her steadfast defense, she was convicted and burned at the stake in 1431 at the age of 19.

Joan of Arc was canonised as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1920 and remains a symbol of French patriotism, courage, and religious devotion. Her legacy has inspired countless works of literature, art, and film, and she is revered as a national heroine in France.