Battle of Montenaken [SEP] end time
Battle of Montenaken
The Battle of Montenaken was fought between the forces of Liège and the Duchy of Burgundy on 20 October 1465 as part of the First Liège War. Although outnumbered, the Burgundian force succeeded in routing the militia of Liège, inflicting heavy casualties.
Background.
The War of the Public Weal between Louis XI and many of his senior nobles began in March 1465. As a consequence, the Duchy of Burgundy found itself at war with France. Louis, anxious to find allies, entered into talks with
force of 3-500 Burgundian cavalry in open country. The Liege forces drew up between two tumuli, of which there are a number around Montenaken. The Burgundian cavalry charged but were beaten back by artillery fire. Regrouping, they charged again and were again beaten back. This time, however, their opponents pursued them. The Burgundians rallied again and charged a third time. The Liège army, out of its defensive position and disordered by pursuit was routed. 1200 men were estimated to have been killed in the battle and