Exam 13: The Byzantine Empire and Crisis and Recovery in the West

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The Hundred Years' War was a series of conflicts between England and France that lasted from 1337 to 1453. The causes of the war were complex and included territorial disputes, economic competition, and the question of succession to the French throne. The effects of the war were far-reaching, leading to significant changes in the balance of power in Europe and the development of new military tactics and technologies.

One of the most significant events of the Hundred Years' War was the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, where the English army, led by King Henry V, achieved a decisive victory over the larger French forces. This battle demonstrated the effectiveness of the English longbow and the use of infantry tactics, which had a lasting impact on medieval warfare.

The Hundred Years' War differed from earlier medieval warfare in several ways. One major difference was the increased use of gunpowder weapons, such as cannons and handguns, which changed the nature of siege warfare and fortifications. Additionally, the war saw the rise of professional standing armies and the use of mercenaries, as opposed to the feudal levies that had been common in earlier conflicts.

Overall, the Hundred Years' War marked a transition in medieval warfare, with the increased use of new technologies and tactics that would shape the future of military strategy. The war also had a lasting impact on the political and social landscape of Europe, leading to the decline of feudalism and the rise of centralized nation-states.

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Aragon and Castile were two powerful kingdoms in medieval Spain. They were separate entities for much of their history, but eventually came together through the marriage of Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile in 1469. This union laid the foundation for the unification of Spain and the eventual creation of the Spanish state.

Aragon was located in the northeastern part of the Iberian Peninsula and had a strong maritime tradition. It was known for its trading and naval power, and its rulers were involved in various conflicts and alliances throughout Europe.

Castile, on the other hand, was located in the central part of the Iberian Peninsula and was known for its strong feudal traditions and agricultural economy. It was also a center of learning and culture, with the famous University of Salamanca being located there.

The marriage of Ferdinand and Isabella brought together these two powerful kingdoms, and their joint rule marked a period of great expansion and influence for Spain. They completed the Reconquista, the centuries-long effort to drive the Moors out of the Iberian Peninsula, and also sponsored the voyages of Christopher Columbus, leading to the establishment of the Spanish Empire.

Together, Aragon and Castile formed the basis for modern Spain, and their union had a lasting impact on the history and culture of the Iberian Peninsula.