Charles VII of France
King of France
"This kingdom was given to me by God, through the Maid, and I will keep it with His help."
Biography
Charles VII began his reign as the 'King of Bourges' — mocked by his English enemies as barely controlling the southern rump of France. With Joan of Arc as his catalyst, he was crowned at Reims in 1429 and spent the next two decades methodically reconquering his kingdom. He modernized the French army, creating the first permanent professional standing army in Western Europe and supporting Jean Bureau's revolutionary artillery corps. By 1453 he had driven the English from all of France except Calais. Called 'the Victorious,' he transformed France from a feudal patchwork into a centralized monarchy.
Did you know?
Charles VII died from self-induced starvation — terrified of being poisoned, he refused to eat and starved to death, despite the pleas of his physicians and courtiers.
Key Battles
Siege of Orléans
France victoryOctober 1428 – May 1429 · 7,000 total casualties
The relief of Orléans was the turning point of the entire Hundred Years' War. It transformed Joan of Arc into a legend overnight, restored French confidence after decades of defeat, and gave the Dauphin Charles legitimacy to march to Reims for his coronation. From this moment, the momentum of the war shifted decisively to France and never returned to England.
Life Journey
Timeline
February 22, 1403
🌅 Birth
Born in Paris, fourth son of Charles VI; never expected to be king
March 1429
📍 Posting
Meets Joan of Arc at Chinon; agrees to give her an army
July 17, 1429
📍 Posting
Crowned King of France at Reims Cathedral beside Joan of Arc
April 13, 1436
⚔️ Battle
Recaptures Paris from English and Burgundian control
July 17, 1453
⚔️ Battle
His artillery under Jean Bureau wins decisive Battle of Castillon
July 22, 1461
✝️ Death
Dies at Mehun-sur-Yèvre, having reconquered France