Aquitaine was a large duchy in southwestern France that was held by the English King Edward III through his mother. The French King Philip VI wanted to bring Aquitaine under his direct control, leading to tensions between the two monarchs.
2. Rivalry for the French Throne:
Edward III laid claim to the French throne based on his descent from King Philip IV of France. Philip VI, on the other hand, was crowned king according to the Salic Law, which prevented women from inheriting the throne. This rivalry was a significant source of conflict between Edward and Philip.
3. Flemish Rebellion:
The Flemish region in present-day Belgium was a wealthy textile center and an important source of trade for England. When the Flemish rebels sought support from Edward III against the French, he saw an opportunity to weaken France's economic power and gain control of Flanders.
4. Scottish Alliance:
England had a long-standing alliance with Scotland, which was often at odds with France. The support that England provided to Scotland during the Scottish Wars of Independence further strained relations between England and France.
5. Commercial Competition:
Both England and France were growing economic powers in the 14th century, competing for control over trade routes, markets, and resources. This rivalry contributed to tensions and disputes between the two nations.
6. Personal Enmity:
Edward III and Philip VI had a strained personal relationship, marked by mutual distrust and animosity. Their disagreements and conflicts on various fronts escalated the tensions between England and France.
These factors combined to create a volatile situation between England and France, ultimately leading to the outbreak of the Hundred Years' War in 1337.