Battle of Saint-Quentin

The French army is encircled and suffers a crushing defeat against well-coordinated Imperial forces. Constable Anne de Montmorency is taken prisoner, considerably weakening the French position.

The battle fits within the intense rivalry between France and the Empire of Charles V for control of European territories.

Imperial encirclement maneuvers, numerical superiority, coordinated use of infantry and artillery, French failure in reconnaissance and coordination.

Military and political weakening of France, necessity of diplomatic negotiations, and temporary rise of Imperial power.