Main purpose of the war:
1. Claim to French throne: The war began when Edward III of England, who had a claim to the French throne through his mother, Isabella of France, challenged the legitimacy of Philip VI's rule in France.
2. Control over territories: England sought to retain its possessions in France, including the Duchy of Aquitane and the County of Ponthieu, which it had controlled for several centuries.
3. Economic interests: Both England and France were competing for control of trade routes and resources, particularly in the wool industry, which was vital to the economies of both countries.
4. Dynastic struggles: The war also involved power struggles within the royal families of both countries, with rival claimants to the throne seeking to secure their positions and expand their territories.
5. Nationalism: As the war progressed, it became increasingly driven by nationalistic sentiments, with both England and France developing a sense of national identity and pride that fueled their desire for victory.
The war had a profound impact on both England and France, causing significant loss of life, social and economic disruption, and political upheaval. It ultimately ended with the French emerging victorious, consolidating their control over most of their territories and establishing the Valois dynasty as the ruling family of France.