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Poton de SentraylFrench commander of the Hundred Years' War.
Country:
 France |
Content:
- Poton de Xaintrailles: A Renowned French Commander
- Orleans and Joan of Arc:
- Capture and Exchange:
- Raid and Plunder:
- Regular Army and Honors:
- Final Campaign and Legacy:
Poton de Xaintrailles: A Renowned French Commander
Early Life and Career:Poton de Xaintrailles, born in Gascony in 1390, was a pivotal figure in the Hundred Years' War. As an adventurer and soldier of fortune, he exemplified the dual nature of medieval military leaders, effortlessly transitioning between battlefield command and banditry.
In 1418, alongside his comrade Étienne de Vignolles (La Hire), Xaintrailles joined the army of the Dauphin Charles. He fought valiantly at the Battle of Verneuil in 1424 and in 1428 aided La Hire in the defense of Orleans under English siege.
Orleans and Joan of Arc:
When Joan of Arc was appointed commander-in-chief in 1429, Xaintrailles became one of her most trusted lieutenants. He distinguished himself in the liberation of Orleans and the Loire campaign that followed. At the Battle of Patay, Xaintrailles and La Hire led the vanguard, securing a decisive French victory.
Capture and Exchange:
In 1431, Xaintrailles fell prisoner to the English and remained in captivity for two years. However, in 1433, he was exchanged for the English commander Talbot, who had been captured at Patay.
Raid and Plunder:
Upon his release, Xaintrailles embarked on daring raids into English-occupied Normandy, often targeting local civilians as well as enemy soldiers. The king's disapproval forced Xaintrailles to issue a manifesto prohibiting his captains from banditry.
Regular Army and Honors:
In 1445, the establishment of a regular army under Constable Richemont transformed Xaintrailles' role. He became a prominent French commander, fighting valiantly in the liberation of Normandy. In 1449, he entered Rouen alongside the king, bearing his sword.
Final Campaign and Legacy:
Xaintrailles participated in the final campaign of the Hundred Years' War, the conquest of Guyenne. In 1454, following the capture of Bordeaux, he was awarded the prestigious title of Marshal of France. He passed away in Bordeaux in 1461, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most renowned military leaders of a turbulent era.
