Etien de Viniol French commander of the Hundred Years' War. Country: France

Biography of Etienne de Vignolles, also known as La Hire

Etienne de Vignolles, better known as La Hire, was a French military leader during the Hundred Years' War. He was born in 1390 in Gascony and died on January 11, 1443, in Montauban. La Hire gained his reputation for his unruly nature and rudeness, earning him the nickname "La Hire," meaning "anger" in Old French. He was a typical representative of the generation that grew up during the Hundred Years' War, having only focused on warfare since childhood. Although he was incredibly brave, he lacked proper education and manners.

In 1418, La Hire, along with his fellow combatant Poton de Xaintrailles, joined the army of the dauphin Charles. During the same year, he distinguished himself by capturing the Château de Cusset from the Burgundians.

In October 1428, La Hire arrived in Orléans, which was under English siege. He energetically participated in attacks against the English, including the famous "Battle of the Herrings." After Jeanne d'Arc was appointed the commander-in-chief of the army, La Hire became one of her most loyal allies. He bravely fought during the lifting of the siege of Orléans and later in the Loire campaign. La Hire and de Xaintrailles, leading the vanguard of the French army, played a crucial role in the victory at the Battle of Patay.

In 1430, he was captured by the Burgundians but managed to secure his release with the help of the king. After his release, La Hire became renowned for his daring raids in the occupied regions of Normandy.

During the battles in the southwest near Montauban in 1442, La Hire was wounded, fell ill, and shortly after passed away. He is attributed with a prayer: "Lord, do for La Hire what you would have La Hire do for you if you were La Hire, and La Hire were the Lord."