How did England use Calais during the Hundred Years’ War?

During the Hundred Years’ War, England utilized Calais as a critical strategic asset following its capture in 1347. Its primary roles included:

• Military Base: As an English colony, the city served as an excellent military base of operations within France, allowing for the easy receipt of reinforcements and supplies from England due to its proximity to the coast.1
• Economic Hub: The city became central to English war finance. In 1363, the Calais staple was established, requiring all English exports of raw wool to be channeled through the port, which helped the crown manage and tax the trade that funded the war effort.2
• Settlement: To secure its hold on the territory, the city was populated with English settlers and merchants.1

Calais remained under English control until 1558, serving as a vital link between England and the continent throughout the conflict.13