August 1346 – August 1347 · Northern France Theater
August 1346 – August 1347
Following Crécy, Edward III besieged the port city of Calais, a vital strategic prize on the narrowest point of the English Channel. The English blockade by land and sea starved the city over eleven months. When Calais finally surrendered, Edward demanded six burghers — the city's leading citizens — come before him barefoot with ropes around their necks to be executed as punishment for the prolonged resistance. Queen Philippa famously interceded and saved their lives. The six burghers became one of the most celebrated images of medieval courage.
Commanders