A minor Anglo-French skirmish near Gisors in 1198 in which Richard I routed Philip Augustus, reportedly dunking the French king in the river.
Key Facts
- Date
- 27 September 1198
- French force (knights)
- 300 knights plus footsoldiers and citizens
- Bridge collapse
- Gisors bridge broke under retreating French troops
- Followed by
- Temporary truce made at Vernon
- Motto allegedly coined
- Dieu et mon droit
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
A truce between Richard I of England and Philip Augustus of France expired in 1198, resuming hostilities that had continued since 1194. Both kings invaded and plundered the other's territory, with Richard capturing several French castles including Courcelles. Philip marched from Mante with 300 knights to retake the castle, setting the stage for a direct confrontation.
The French army, superior in numbers, changed direction and advanced toward Gisors, where the Anglo-Norman forces met and defeated them. The routed French fled across the bridge at Gisors, which collapsed under the weight of the retreating soldiers, causing Philip Augustus to fall into the river. He was pulled out by his troops, while the fortress of Gisors itself remained in French hands.
The engagement was followed by another temporary truce negotiated at Vernon. Richard is also credited with adopting the motto 'Dieu et mon droit' at or before the battle, asserting that he held his kingdom and continental domains by divine right alone, independent of any feudal obligation to the French crown.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Richard I of England.
Side B
1 belligerent
Philip Augustus (Philip II of France).