and lead an army. As a result, authority did not rest in any one person, but in all of the lords together. This led to English disputes and disunity. Also, the subjects believed this was the king's war and the king should not finance the war through taxation but from his own income from Gascony. The maintenance of a dual kingdom was a financial strain and England was far in debt on military wages. In addition, Gascony was very difficult to defend and the unstable economic conditions made it difficult to meet military crises as they arose. Consequently, the English army in Gascony disbanded. 18 When it seemed as if there was no hope for France, a new light appeared for them. She was Joan of Arc, the Maid of Orleans. Joan of Arc and Charles VII were able to organize France. They invaded Gascony with an overwhelming force and began to capture the English towns along the Norman border without being drawn into a pitched battle. Even after Joan of Arc's capture and execution by the English and Burgundians, her spirit seemed to inspire the French. As a result, the French offensive spirit was rekindled. Again, the French outnumbered the English. But this time the French army did not rest, instead they sped aggressively to the next battle. Moreover, the French implemented the use of the cannon-ball. 19 Again, "the allegiance of the noble families to England or France was determined by the economic and judicial privileges of their lordships." 20 But their land and goods were confiscated during Charles VII's invasion. Consequently, the nobles defected to France. As England continued to lose its control of the South-West, France's ability to allure the nobility away from England increased. "In the past many had mocked the sovereignty of France. But in the political conditions of 1442-53 they were seldom able to resist the bribes, threats, and sanctions employed by a stronger and wealthier monarchy." 21 He who controls the Channel controls, control...
