The Hundred Years War was a long conflict between England and France from 1337 to 1453 over the French throne. The war began when Edward III of England claimed the French throne after the death of Charles IV left no heir. Although Philip VI assumed the throne, Edward still pressed his own claim, leading to numerous battles and campaigns between the two countries over the next century. Key events included initial English victories, France gaining the upper hand aided by Joan of Arc, and eventual French expulsion of English forces from most French territories.