Page "Battle of Crécy" Paragraph 25

Ribaldis, a type of cannon, were first mentioned during preparations for the battle between 1345 and 1346.

Similar cannon appeared at the Siege of Calais in the same year, although it was not until the 1380s that the " ribaudekin " was mounted on wheels.

The use of firearms at this battle is only mentioned in one contemporary account of the battle, that of Villani ( d. 1348 ).

Villani did travel abroad during much of the early 14th century, yet he had returned to his home in Florence at the time of the Battle of Crécy, so his information was likely second hand if not third or fourth hand.

His account also conflicts with almost all of the other contemporary chronicles of this time on the events of the battle, specifically the use of firearms.

In one of the later versions of his chronicle, Froissart does mention guns being used in the battle, but by that time firearms had become more common in warfare.

His earlier versions fail to include any mention of firearms.

So while firearms were perhaps employed, their possible effect on the battle should be viewed critically.