Battle of Jarnac
French Wars of Religion · Jarnac, Charente (France)
Summary
Catholic victory on 13 March 1569 at Jarnac (Charente): Henry of Anjou surprised Condé's and Coligny's Protestants by crossing the Charente. Condé's death, more than the battle itself, weakened the Huguenots, but Coligny saved most troops to continue the third War of Religion.
Historical context
On 13 March 1569, during the third French War of Religion, the Protestant army of Louis I de Condé faced royal troops commanded by Henry, Duke of Anjou, near Jarnac in Angoumois. After the pacification edict of 23 March 1568, hostilities resumed because La Rochelle refused to accept a royal garrison.
Tactics
The Duke of Anjou restored the bridge at Châteauneuf and crossed the Charente at night, surprising Coligny who took three hours to gather his scattered forces. Condé launched a cavalry charge (order cancelled but carried out) that left him surrounded and killed. Unengaged Huguenot infantry and artillery withdrew on Cognac under Coligny.
Consequences
Prince Condé was killed by a pistol shot in the neck from Montesquiou while he had surrendered, a terrible blow to the Protestants. Coligny however saved the remaining 6,000 men and formed the core of a new army. The victory earned Henry of Anjou European renown, before the more decisive Battle of Moncontour in October.