Combat of the Thirty

The Combat of the Thirty was fought to grant one side the Duchy of Brittany. It was fought between 30 knights and squires led by Jean de Beaumanoir who had the support of Philip VI of France and 30 more led by Robert Bemborough who had the support of Edward III of England. 

 Background 
The Breton War of Succession was fought between House Blois and House Montfort. France and England saw they could put someone on the throne to gain more support in the Hundred Years' War. The direct cause varies, with some saying Jean and Robert were already enemies when Robert came up with the idea of a duel, while others say that it was for honor. 

 The Battle 
On March 26, 1351, the armies engaged each other. The battle was fought on horses and on foot, and many soldiers fought with swords, spears, and axes, with many people watching. In the fight, Jean de Beaumanoir was wounded and asked for water. A nearby knight, Geoffroy du Bois who said "Drink thy blood, Beaumanoir; thy thirst shall pass" (Bois ton sang, Beaumanoir, la soif te passera). Hours passed and the soldiers agreed to a break. By then, 2 soldiers led by Beaumanoir had been killed while four led by Bemborough had been killed. During the break, soldiers bandaged their injuries, drank water, and repaired weapons. When the fight resumed, Geoffroy du Bois killed Bemborough, and a German soldier named Croquart gathered the Anglo-Bretons into a defensive formation. A squire named Guillaume de Montauban charged into the English formation and killed 7 Englishmen, who surrendered. 

 Aftermath 
After the victory, the remaining Anglo-Breton prisoners were taken to Josselin Castle where they were either paid to be free or forced to work. The battle gained wide popularity as an example of Chivalry. The soldiers on both sides did not run when faced with death or capture, showing honor. Charles V of France ordered a tapestry be woven in honor of the battle. One of the survivors, Yves Charruel, was given the highest honor in Charles' court since he had fought in the Battle.
Reference

Category:1350s in England
Category:Battles involving France
Category:Battles involving England