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⁾