How did Henry V’s strategy in Normandy differ from earlier English raids in France?

Unlike earlier English military efforts in France, which often relied on destructive raids known as chevauchées intended to weaken the enemy through plunder and intimidation, Henry V pursued a strategy of methodical, permanent conquest.1

Beginning in 1417, Henry shifted his approach to the systematic subjugation of Normandy town by town and district by district. Rather than simply passing through the countryside, he focused on securing key strategic strongholds to establish lasting control over the region.1

A primary example of this shift was the Siege of Rouen, where Henry utilized a long-term blockade to starve the city into submission. By settling in for a protracted siege rather than attempting a quick assault, he demonstrated a commitment to territorial occupation that contrasted with the transient nature of previous English incursions during the Hundred Years’ War. This disciplined, incremental expansion allowed him to effectively dismantle French resistance across the province.21