Evaluate the impact on England and France of the Hundred Years’ War 1415–1453.

The question requires that candidates consider the interrelationship between the series of conflicts and conditions/politics in both England and France. There may be consideration of impact on the population; the economy; national identity; changes in military tactics, where relevant. In France one major impact was population decline because of famine, epidemics and the actions of mercenaries during the conflicts. In England the cost of the war contributed to discontent with the monarchy (the Peasants’ Revolt and the overthrow of Richard II). Toward the end of the war, the loss of French territory was blamed on the “weak rule” of Henry VI and was arguably a cause of the Wars of the Roses. In both countries, the conflicts led to a stronger sense of national identity because of military success (Agincourt) or the need to drive out foreigners (Joan of Arc). The end of English presence gave France a much stronger sense of unity. A comparative approach may or may not be used, some may argue that France suffered much greater damage than England.