# Bertrand du Guesclin

> Constable of France

**Wikidata**: [Q314905](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q314905)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bertrand_du_Guesclin)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/bertrand-du-guesclin

## Summary
Bertrand du Guesclin was a French military leader and knight, serving as the Constable of France during the Hundred Years' War. He is renowned for his strategic victories, including the Battle of Cocherel and the Battle of Auray, which secured key territories for France and strengthened its position in the war.

## Biography
- Born: c. 1320
- Nationality: French
- Education: Trained as a knight and military commander
- Known for: Leading French forces to victory in the Hundred Years' War
- Employer(s): King of France (Charles V)
- Field(s): Military leadership, warfare strategy

## Contributions
Bertrand du Guesclin led French forces to decisive victories in the Hundred Years' War, including the Battle of Cocherel (1364) and the Battle of Auray (1364), which secured Brittany for France. He also played a significant role in the Battle of Nájera (1367) and the Battle of Montiel (1369), contributing to French military successes. His leadership helped stabilize France's position in the war and earned him the title of Constable of France.

## FAQs
**What was Bertrand du Guesclin's role in the Hundred Years' War?**
Bertrand du Guesclin served as the Constable of France, leading military campaigns and securing key victories that strengthened France's position in the war against England.

**Where did Bertrand du Guesclin fight during the Hundred Years' War?**
He fought in major battles such as Cocherel (1364), Auray (1364), Nájera (1367), and Montiel (1369), all of which were pivotal in shaping the outcome of the war.

**What title did Bertrand du Guesclin hold?**
He was the Constable of France, a prestigious military rank that granted him command over the royal army.

**Who did Bertrand du Guesclin serve under?**
He served under King Charles V of France, who appointed him Constable of France.

## Why They Matter
Bertrand du Guesclin's military leadership during the Hundred Years' War was instrumental in securing French victories and stabilizing the kingdom's position against England. His strategic brilliance and tactical successes earned him a reputation as one of France's greatest military commanders. His contributions helped shape the course of the war and left a lasting legacy in French military history.

## Notable For
- **Constable of France**: Held the prestigious title of Constable, commanding the royal army.
- **Victories in the Hundred Years' War**: Secured key battles, including Cocherel and Auray, which strengthened France's position.
- **Leadership in Major Campaigns**: Played a crucial role in battles such as Nájera and Montiel, contributing to French military successes.
- **Strengthening French Territory**: His victories helped secure Brittany and other territories for France.

## Body

### Early Life and Military Career
Bertrand du Guesclin was born around 1320 and began his military career as a knight, training under the guidance of experienced commanders. His early service included participation in various conflicts, where he demonstrated his tactical prowess and leadership abilities.

### Appointment as Constable of France
In 1360, Bertrand du Guesclin was appointed Constable of France by King Charles V, a position that granted him command over the royal army. This appointment marked the beginning of his most significant military role, where he would lead France's forces in the Hundred Years' War.

### Key Battles and Victories
Bertrand du Guesclin's most notable victories include:
- **Battle of Cocherel (1364)**: A decisive engagement that secured a major French advantage in the war.
- **Battle of Auray (1364)**: Another pivotal battle that further strengthened France's position in the conflict.
- **Battle of Nájera (1367)**: A significant campaign that contributed to French military successes.
- **Battle of Montiel (1369)**: A key engagement that helped stabilize France's military standing.

### Legacy and Influence
Bertrand du Guesclin's leadership during the Hundred Years' War left a lasting impact on French military history. His strategic victories and tactical brilliance earned him a reputation as one of France's greatest military commanders. His contributions helped secure key territories and stabilize France's position against England, shaping the course of the war and leaving a lasting legacy in French military tradition.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. BnF authorities
3. datos.bne.es
4. International Standard Name Identifier
5. Integrated Authority File
6. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
7. CERL Thesaurus
8. Enciclopedia Treccani
9. LIBRIS. 2018
10. FactGrid