This Osprey title examines the crucial campaign which marked the turning point of the Hundred Years' War (1337-1453). In 1415 King Henry V of England invaded France and won an overwhelming victory at the Battle of Agincourt. Following his victory, the English conquered a large part of northern France, and by 1429 were besieging the city of Orléans. In this darkest hour, France's fortunes were transformed by the inspirational leadership of a young woman, Jeanne d'Arc (Joan of Arc). Within four months the French had broken the siege and won a great victory at the battle of Patay over the previously invincible English.