Siege and Battle of Morlaix

September 30th, 1342

September 30th, 1342

Siege and Battle of Morlaix
How Long Ago?

682 years, 5 months, 15 days ago

Location

Morlaix, Brittany, France

Category

Military & Warfare

War/Conflict

Hundred Years' War

People
  • John Chandos
  • French Defenders
Links & References
Tags

Siege and Battle of Morlaix

The siege of Morlaix involved a critical confrontation between English and French forces during the Hundred Years' War. Occurring in Brittany, the English aimed to capture the fortified town of Morlaix, which would enhance their control in the region. Led by the English commander, John Chandos, the siege began after the town's defenders rejected terms of surrender offered by the English. The battle was marked by fierce fighting, heavy casualties, and strategic maneuvers, ultimately leading to English victory and securing critical territory.

Morlaix was critical for control over Brittany.

John Chandos led the English siege operations.

The battle showcased evolving military tactics.

English victory influenced future war efforts.

What Happened?

The Siege of Morlaix unfolded as part of the larger conflict known as the Hundred Years' War, which pitted the Kingdom of England against the Kingdom of France over a series of territorial and political disputes. In this context, Morlaix, a vital town in Brittany, became the center of military operations, drawing the attention of the English due to its strategic significance. With John Chandos leading the English forces, they aimed to capture the town from its French defenders, who were resolute in their resistance. The English laid siege to Morlaix, encircling it to cut off supplies and reinforcements. Despite their disadvantage in numbers, the French defenders fought fiercely to protect their territory.The English besieged Morlaix with coordinated assaults and tactical strategies, demonstrating adaptability in warfare. Heavy artillery and archers played crucial roles in the English tactics, decimating the defensive walls and inflicting significant casualties on the town's defenders. After a prolonged engagement characterized by siege warfare, the defenders were unable to withstand the relentless pressure and the betrayal of some internal factions led to their eventual collapse. The capture of Morlaix not only showcased the English military strategy but also marked a turning point in the control of Brittany during the Hundred Years' War, influencing subsequent territorial claims and military initiatives in the region. The town became a base for further English operations in Brittany, further entrenching their influence in France.

Why Does it Matter?

The siege and subsequent battle of Morlaix signify a notable moment in the Hundred Years' War, underlining shifting power structures in medieval France. It emphasizes how control of key cities in regions like Brittany could significantly sway the overall balance of power between England and France. The English victory exemplified successful siege techniques that would be mirrored in later engagements, influencing tactical warfare paradigms for future military leaders.

Discover More Historic Events from September 30th

Arts & Culture

Two Stolen Van Gogh Paintings Recovered

September 30th, 2016 8 years ago

Two invaluable paintings by Vincent van Gogh, stolen from the Van Gogh Museum in 2002, were recovered by Italian authorities. The masterpieces, valued at $100 million combined, were taken during a brazen nighttime heist. This recovery marked a significant moment for art theft and cultural heritage preservation in Italy.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Hurricane Matthew Reaches Category 5 Status

September 30th, 2016 8 years ago

Hurricane Matthew intensified into a Category 5 hurricane, becoming the strongest hurricane in the Caribbean Sea since 2007. The hurricane had formed earlier in September and brought high winds and heavy rainfall to several Caribbean islands. This powerful storm significantly impacted Haiti, Cuba, and the Bahamas, raising concerns for potential destruction due to its strength.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Sumatra Earthquake Causes Significant Casualties

September 30th, 2009 15 years ago

A powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, resulting in extensive devastation and a tragic loss of life. Occurring in the afternoon, the quake was followed by numerous aftershocks and landslides, complicating rescue efforts. The hardest-hit areas included Padang and its surrounding districts, with buildings collapsing and communication disruptions in the aftermath. An estimated 1,115 people were confirmed dead, with many others injured and displaced, highlighting the region's vulnerability to seismic activity due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Continue Reading
Religion & Philosophy

Danish Newspaper Publishes Muhammad Drawings

September 30th, 2005 19 years ago

The Danish newspaper Jyllands-Posten published drawings depicting the Prophet Muhammad, sparking widespread controversy and protests across the Muslim world. Initially published as part of a discussion on self-censorship in the context of criticism of Islam, the cartoons resulted in a significant backlash, including calls for boycotts of Danish goods and violent protests in various countries. The drawings included representations that many viewed as disrespectful, igniting debate over freedom of expression and religious sensitivities.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Death of Muhammad al-Durrah During Conflict

September 30th, 2000 24 years ago

In a dramatic scene broadcast worldwide, twelve-year-old Muhammad al-Durrah was shot and killed while seeking shelter with his father during a confrontation between Israeli soldiers and Palestinian rioters in the Gaza Strip. The footage captured by a France 2 television crew became an emblematic representation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, igniting global outrage and drawing attention to the humanitarian consequences of military actions. The images of the young boy, who was caught in crossfire, circulated widely and sparked intense debates about the impact of war on civilians.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Nuclear accident in Tokaimura claims lives of technicians

September 30th, 1999 25 years ago

In a severe nuclear accident at the JCO uranium processing plant in Tokaimura, Japan, two workers, Yoshihiro Yamashita and Masato Shinohara, died following a criticality incident caused by negligence and improper procedures. The incident led to widespread contamination and initiated a national debate over nuclear safety protocols and regulations. Emergency responders struggled to contain the radioactive leak while the local community was alerted and evacuated nearby areas as a precautionary measure. The event drew attention to the vulnerabilities in Japan’s nuclear energy practices and reinforced the need for stricter safety measures.

Continue Reading