Joan of Arc

Biography

Joan of Arc (6 January c. 1412 – 30 May 1431), known as "The Maid of Orléans," is a significant figure in French history and a canonized saint of the Roman Catholic Church. Born in Domrémy, France, to peasant parents Jacques d'Arc and Isabelle Romée, she claimed to have received divine visions instructing her to support Charles VII in reclaiming France from English control during the Hundred Years' War. Joan played a crucial role in the siege of Orléans, where her leadership contributed to a decisive French victory within days. This success paved the way for the coronation of Charles VII at Reims, revitalizing French morale and reinforcing the legitimacy of his claim to the throne. Joan was captured in 1430, tried for heresy, and executed in 1431. She was later exonerated and canonized in 1920.