Joan of Arc was a courageous peasant girl from France (born around 1412) who believed she was guided by saints to help the French win the Hundred Years' War. At age 17, she inspired the army to lift the Siege of Orléans in just nine days, becoming a national heroine. Her story shows how bravery can change history.
Imagine being a regular kid one minute, and the next, you’re leading an entire army into battle! Sounds like a movie, right? Well, for a young French woman named Joan of Arc, this incredible adventure was totally real!
Joan of Arc lived a long time ago, around 1412 to 1431, during a super tough time in Europe called the Hundred Years' War. This was a long, messy fight between England and France over who should be the King of France. France was close to losing everything when this brave girl stepped up! Joan was born to a peasant family in a small village called Domrémy. She went from helping her family on the farm to becoming a world-famous national heroine.
Mira says:
"Wow, a real-life teenage general! Joan of Arc shows us that you don't have to be a grown-up or a prince to make a huge difference—sometimes all you need is courage and a big heart!"
What Inspired Joan to Become a Warrior?
Joan wasn't just brave; she believed she had a secret mission from heaven! When she was about 12 years old, she started hearing voices that she believed belonged to saints, including the Archangel Michael.
These voices told her she had a very important job: she needed to help the uncrowned French prince, Charles VII, become the *real* King of France and drive the English invaders out.
Can you imagine being told by voices in your head to lead soldiers? It was a big ask! Joan stuck to her mission with incredible faith, which really impressed Prince Charles when she finally met him in 1429.
Mind-Blowing Fact!
Because she was a girl leading soldiers in the Middle Ages, Joan often cut her hair short and wore men's clothing—specifically, silver armor!
Joan's Amazing Military Triumphs
The French army was feeling pretty gloomy before Joan arrived. They had lost a lot, and it felt like they couldn't win. But when Joan showed up at the city of Orléans, everything changed!
She arrived at the Siege of Orléans in April 1429 with her own banner. The soldiers were inspired by her pure belief and determination. It worked like magic—just nine days later, the English gave up and left the city!
This victory was HUGE! It was a turning point in the war. Joan was nicknamed 'The Maid of Orléans' because of this success.
(In 1429)
(In 1431)
Charles VII crowned with Joan present
How Did Joan Help Crown a King?
After the victory at Orléans, Joan kept pushing the French forces to keep winning. Her next big goal was to get Charles to his rightful crowning spot!
The French custom was for the king to be crowned in the city of Reims. It was deep in enemy-controlled territory, but Joan’s victories cleared a path for them to march there safely.
In July 1429, Charles was crowned King Charles VII, with Joan standing nearby! This was a massive win for French morale and proved Joan's mission was successful in crowning the rightful ruler.
The Sad Turn of Events
Even though she helped the King, Joan's story took a sad turn. In May 1430, she was captured by soldiers from Burgundy, who were allied with the English.
The English put her on trial for heresy—which means believing things the Church says are wrong—mostly because she dressed as a man.
Despite her bravery, King Charles VII, the one she crowned, did not rescue her. Sadly, she was found guilty and burned at the stake in Rouen on May 30, 1431, at only about 19 years old.
💡 Did You Know?
Years later, the Church looked back at Joan's trial and realized it wasn't fair! They overturned the verdict, declared her innocent, and eventually, in 1920, she was officially made a Catholic Saint!
🎯 Quick Quiz!
What was Joan of Arc’s nickname after her big victory at the Siege of Orléans?
Why is Joan of Arc Still Famous Today?
Joan of Arc is more than just a historical figure; she's a huge symbol for France and for people everywhere who believe in fighting for what is right!
She shows us that courage isn't about being big or strong—it’s about being true to your beliefs, even when everyone else says no.
For kids learning history, Joan is a powerful reminder of what a determined person can achieve, no matter their background.
- Patron Saint of France: She is one of the main patron saints of the country she helped save.
- Symbol of Courage: She is looked up to by many as an example of selflessness and perseverance.
- Historical Record: More historical documents exist about her life than almost any other person from the Middle Ages!
- Icon in Art: Writers like Shakespeare and even video games have kept her story alive for centuries!
Joan of Arc's life was short, but it was packed with incredible action and faith. She took on a massive war, helped a king take his throne, and stood up for her beliefs until the very end. Learning about her is a great way to see how one determined person can truly change the course of history for kids everywhere!
Questions Kids Ask About Medieval History
Keep Exploring the Age of Knights!
You just learned about one of history's most amazing teenage heroes! Joan of Arc proves that bravery comes in all shapes and sizes. What part of her story inspired you the most?
