English Diplomacy and the Armagnac-Burgundian Rivalry (1412)…

English Diplomacy and the Armagnac-Burgundian Rivalry (1412)

As the Armagnac-Burgundian Civil War weakened France, England skillfully played both factions against each other, ensuring that neither side gained a decisive advantage. By offering support or buying neutrality when needed, the English strategically exploited French internal divisions to their advantage.

In 1412, the Armagnacs, fearing an Anglo-Burgundian alliance, concluded a treaty with Henry V of England, ceding Guyenne to him and recognizing his suzerainty over Poitou, Angoulême, and Périgord in exchange for his military backing.

Meanwhile, John the Fearless, Duke of Burgundy, skillfully maintained favorable relations with the English, ensuring that no damaging wool embargo was placed on Flanders, which depended heavily on English raw wool for its cloth industry.

I. The Armagnac Treaty with England (1412)

• In 1412, the Armagnacs sought English support, fearing that John the Fearless might form an alliance with Henry V.
• To secure English neutrality or assistance, the Armagnacs made major territorial concessions:
  • Ceding Guyenne (Aquitaine) to England.
  • Recognizing English suzerainty over Poitou, Angoulême, and Périgord.
• This agreement reinforced English influence in southwestern France, weakening overall French sovereignty.