Joan of Arc

About

Joan of Arc, born in 1412 in Domremy, France, was a peasant girl who rose to prominence during the Hundred Years' War. She believed she received divine visions from St. Michael, St. Catherine, and St. Margaret, guiding her to lead the French army against the English. At 17, she convinced Charles VII to let her join the army, leading them to significant victories, including the siege of Orléans in 1429. Her faith and leadership inspired her troops, and she became known as the Maid of Orléans. Joan's courage and conviction were tested when she was captured by the Burgundians and sold to the English. She was tried for heresy and witchcraft, refusing to renounce her visions. Eventually, she was burned at the stake in 1431 at the age of 19. Her legacy endured, and she was declared innocent in 1456. Joan was canonized as a saint in 1920, becoming a symbol of French patriotism and a role model for women worldwide. Her story embodies the power of faith and determination in the face of adversity.