Era of the Hundred Years' War

In 1337, during the reign of Edward III, the series of wars known as the Hundred Years' War began between England and France. The immediate cause was Edward's claim to the French throne. During the early phase of the war, England won many battles. This phase ended with the Peace of Bretigny (1360). France recognized Edward's sovereignty over much French territory in return for the renunciation of his claim to the French throne. War resumed in 1369, and by 1375 most of the territory secured by the Peace of Bretigny had been lost.

Meanwhile, the Black Death (an epidemic of bubonic plague) struck England in 1348. As much as half the population died. Labor became scarce and wages and prices rose as a result.

In 1415 Henry V reasserted the English claim to the French throne. After defeating the French at Agincourt, he became regent of France. His son, Henry VI, was crowned king of France in 1431. English rule was ended by the victories of Joan of Arc and by internal conflict in England. By 1453, the English held only Calais.

Important social changes occurred in England during the era of the Hundred Years' War. The rise of towns and commerce brought money into free circulation, leading to the end of the manorial and feudal systems.