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How did Queen Philippa of Hainaut help save the burghers of Calais?
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Edward III
Edward III, watercolour, 15th century; in the British Library (Cotton MS. Julius E. IV).
Following the Siege of Calais in 1347, Edward III demanded the sacrifice of six prominent citizens, or burghers, as a condition for sparing the rest of the starving population. These men presented themselves to the king wearing only shirts, with ropes around their necks and the keys to the city in their hands, prepared to face execution.1
Philippa of Hainaut, who was pregnant at the time, interceded on their behalf. Moved by her plea for mercy, Edward III spared the lives of the six men. This act of compassion is widely remembered as a defining moment of her tenure as queen consort, reflecting the gentleness and influence she held during her husband's reign.21