Battle of Dreux

The battle pits two French armies divided by religious civil war. After several hours of fierce combat, the Catholics win a tactical victory but lose their leader, Constable Montmorency.

First of eight civil wars between Catholics and Protestants that ravage France for much of the sixteenth century.

Combat in open terrain with use of heavy cavalry, infantry clashes and artillery, disorganized charges and hand-to-hand fighting.

Partial victory for the Catholics, but the conflict continues as a long and deadly war. Death of Montmorency weakens Catholic command.