The Battle of Arnemuiden occurred as part of the broader conflict between England and France known as the Hundred Years' War. The battle took place near the town of Arnemuiden, located in Zeeland, in the Low Countries. A French fleet, commanded by admirals including Charles de la Cerda, engaged an English force that was primarily involved in trade and naval policing. The French aimed to assert their dominance over the English Channel, which was vital for commerce and military operations at the time. The clash represented a shift in naval warfare, showcasing the potential of gunpowder artillery which began to emerge in military use during this era. This battle was not only a testament to military strategy but also demonstrated the growing significance of naval power in the larger context of land-based conflicts.

The utilization of cannons aboard ships allowed the French to inflict damage on the English vessels from a distance, marking a significant evolution in naval tactics. The defeat of the English fleet at Arnemuiden was a crucial moment that reflected the changing dynamics of maritime power, as it underscored the French ability to project force at sea. Following the battle, the French fleet gained momentum, reinforcing their maritime interests and disrupting English commerce in the North Sea. Ultimately, the battle illustrated the increasing militarization of trade routes and the start of more organized naval warfare tactics that would continue to develop through the Hundred Years' War and beyond.