The beatification of Joan of Arc in Rome was a momentous occasion for the Catholic Church and her many supporters around the world. On this day, Pope Pius X presided over the ceremony, which took place in Saint Peter's Basilica. Joan of Arc, a peasant girl who rose to prominence in the early 15th century, is well-known for her pivotal role in the Hundred Years' War, leading French troops to victory against the English and ultimately asserting her country's identity. Her martyrdom and the circumstances surrounding her execution in 1431 made her an enduring symbol of faith and courage.

The beatification process was lengthy and marked by political and religious complexities. Joan was first condemned as a heretic after her death and remained an object of controversy for decades. However, her story garnered a devoted following, particularly in France. In the late 19th century, efforts to rehabilitate her image began in earnest, aligned with a growing resurgence of nationalism in France. The beatification ceremony represented an important affirmation of her virtues as a Christian martyr, paving the way to her eventual canonization in 1920.

This event not only celebrated Joan's legacy but also highlighted the Catholic Church's acknowledgment of female figures in its history whom it deemed worthy of emulation. Many attendees viewed the ceremony as a triumph for both the Catholic faith and for French pride. The beatification solidified Joan of Arc's place as a venerated figure in both religious and national contexts, further inspiring future generations and securing her status as a powerful icon.