Battle of Bouvines
1214 · Bouvines (modern northern France) · World · Medieval
The French center withstood the coalition's charge and then the wings enveloped the enemy; Otto IV fled in disarray, and the Count of Flanders was captured.
Belligerents
Kingdom of France
- Commanders
- Philip II of Spain
- Strength
- French army
Holy Roman Empire-England alliance
- Commanders
- Otto IV, Count of Flanders
- Strength
- Coalition
Background
King John of England allied with the Holy Roman Emperor and the Count of Flanders in an attempt to attack France from east and west and carve it up.
Course of the battle
- EncounterThe two armies unexpectedly ran into each other near Bouvines and hastily formed up.
- Fierce fightingThe French center withstood the coalition's frontal charge.
- EncirclementThe French wings enveloped the enemy, the coalition was routed, and Otto IV fled.
Outcome at a glance
| Date | 1214 |
|---|---|
| Place | Bouvines (modern northern France) |
| Result | The French center withstood the coalition's charge and then the wings enveloped the enemy; Otto IV fled in disarray, and the Count of Flanders was captured. |
| Winner | Kingdom of France |
| Casualties | The coalition suffered fairly heavy losses, and many nobles were captured. |
| Territorial change | Philip II's royal power was consolidated, and King John of England's defeat hastened the Magna Carta crisis at home. |
Impact
Philip II's prestige soared and the French monarchy became more centralized, while John's defeat hastened the political crisis at home.
See the world in 1214 on the map →