Joan of Arc was born around January 6, 1412, in Domrémy, a small village in northeastern France.1)
Joan was born to a peasant family, with her father Jacques d'Arc and mother Isabelle Romée.2)
Joan did not receive a formal education and could neither read nor write.3)
From a young age, Joan was known for her piety and strong religious beliefs.4)
At around 13, Joan began experiencing visions and hearing voices, which she believed were from saints like Michael, Catherine, and Margaret.5)
Joan claimed these voices instructed her to support Charles VII and help expel the English from France.6)
In 1429, at age 17, Joan traveled to the court of Charles VII, the Dauphin (heir to the French throne), to offer her support.7)
To safely travel through hostile territory, Joan disguised herself as a male soldier.8)
Despite initial skepticism, Joan convinced Charles VII of her divine mission and gained his support.9)
Joan was given armor and a sword, and she adopted a white banner adorned with the names “Jesus” and “Mary.”10)
Joan's first major military engagement was the Siege of Orléans in 1429, where her presence boosted the morale of French troops.11)
Under Joan’s leadership, the French achieved a decisive victory, lifting the siege and turning the tide of the Hundred Years' War.12)
Joan became known as “The Maid of Orléans” after this victory.13)
Joan played a crucial role in escorting Charles VII to Reims, where he was crowned king of France on July 17, 1429.14)
Joan’s charisma and faith inspired both soldiers and common people, rallying them to her cause.15)
Although not formally trained, Joan had a natural talent for military strategy and tactics.16)
Joan was wounded several times in battle, showing great courage and resilience.17)
Joan was captured by the Burgundians, allies of the English, on May 23, 1430, during the defense of Compiègne.18)
She was imprisoned in various locations before being handed over to the English.19)
Joan was put on trial for heresy, witchcraft, and cross-dressing by a pro-English church court in Rouen.20)
Bishop Pierre Cauchon, a supporter of the English, presided over her trial.21)
Joan steadfastly refused to deny her visions and her divine mission, despite intense interrogation and threats.22)
She was found guilty and sentenced to death on May 30, 1431.23)
Joan was burned at the stake in Rouen at the age of 19.24)
Her last words were reportedly “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus.”25)
Her ashes were thrown into the Seine River to prevent the collection of relics.26)
In 1456, a retrial ordered by Pope Callixtus III declared her innocent and a martyr.27)
Joan was beatified by the Roman Catholic Church in 1909 by Pope Pius X.28)
She was canonized as a saint on May 16, 1920, by Pope Benedict XV.29)
Joan of Arc is the patron saint of France and soldiers.30)
Joan has been a symbol of French unity and nationalism, particularly during times of crisis.31)
Numerous statues and monuments dedicated to Joan exist throughout France and the world.32)
Her feast day is celebrated on May 30th.33)
Joan’s life has inspired countless works of literature, including plays by George Bernard Shaw and Friedrich Schiller.34)
Joan’s story has been depicted in numerous films and TV series, reflecting her enduring legacy.35)
Despite her trial and execution, Joan has been recognized as a military leader and strategist.36)
Joan's name and legacy continue to influence modern culture, including the TV show “Joan of Arcadia.”37)
Joan has been used as a symbol by various political movements, from monarchists to feminists.38)
Joan’s courage and conviction continue to inspire people around the world.39)
Joan is considered an early feminist figure for her defiance of gender norms and leadership in a male-dominated society.40)
She has been posthumously awarded military decorations and honors in France.41)
Joan is studied in history and religious education curriculums globally.42)
She has been the subject of many paintings, sculptures, and other forms of art.43)
Joan’s impact on the Hundred Years' War helped shape the future of France as a unified nation.44)
Joan of Arc remains a symbol of faith, determination, and the power of individual conviction.45)