ON THIS DATE IN 1909, JOAN OF ARC WAS DECLARED A SAINT

On this date in 1909, Joan of Arc, one of the most extraordinary figures in history, was declared a saint by Pope Pius X, putting an official end to her arduous journey from peasant girl to martyr and, finally, to a saint (Apr 20, 1909).

The canonization of Joan of Arc took place 489 years after her execution, but her story continues to inspire and captivate people around the world.

Born in 1412, in Domrémy, a small village in northeastern France, Joan was a peasant girl who claimed to have received visions from saints, instructing her to help Charles VII reclaim the French throne during the Hundred Years’ War. Against all odds, she was able to convince the future king to let her lead his forces into battle against the English.

Joan’s military successes in the Battle of Orléans and other key victories boosted French morale and paved the way for the coronation of Charles VII in 1429. Unfortunately, she was captured by the Burgundians in 1430 and sold to the English, who accused her of heresy and witchcraft. After a sham trial, Joan was sentenced to be burned at the stake on May 30, 1431, at the age of 19.

Joan’s story didn’t end with her death, however. The public outcry over her unjust execution led to a retrial in 1456, which declared her innocent and a martyr. Over the centuries, her reputation grew, and her cause for sainthood gained momentum. Finally, on April 18, 1909, Joan of Arc was canonized by Pope Pius X.

The legacy of Joan of Arc is multifaceted, as she is not only a religious icon but also a symbol of courage, determination, and perseverance. Through her unwavering faith and tenacity, she became a figure who transcended religious, cultural, and historical boundaries, inspiring generations of people to stand up for their beliefs and fight against injustice.