Joan of Arc was accused of witchcraft and approximately 70 other charges also including heresy and violating God's law by attiring in men's clothing. She was a peasant girl that believed visions from God compelled her to lead France and crown-prince Charles of Valois to victory against the English in the Hundred Years War. She was later captured by English forces, tried and burned in a stake.  In the early 15th century, a young peasant girl from a small village in France would rise to become one of history's most remarkable figures. St. Joan of Arc, often referred to as the "Maid of Orléans," was charged with a crime that shook the medieval world - heresy.

Born in Domrémy, France, in 1412, Joan of Arc was an ordinary girl who claimed to have received divine visions and messages from saints, including St. Michael the Archangel. Her mission, as she understood it, was to aid the Dauphin of France, the future King Charles VII, in his quest to reclaim the French throne during the Hundred Years' War. The war had plunged France into turmoil, with the English and their allies in control of much of the country.

Joan's unwavering faith and conviction led her to take up a sword and armor, defying traditional gender roles, and she embarked on a remarkable journey to lead the French forces against the English. Her efforts resulted in several significant victories, including the lifting of the siege of Orléans.

However, Joan's success was met with skepticism and resistance. Her claims of divine guidance, her ability to inspire troops, and her audacious actions led to accusations of heresy. In 1431, she was put on trial by an ecclesiastical court under the control of the English-allied Bishop of Beauvais.

The primary charge against Joan of Arc was heresy, which essentially meant that her actions and claims were deemed contrary to the doctrines of the Catholic Church. Her trial was a highly politicized affair, with the English and their allies seeking to discredit her and undermine her influence.

Despite being subjected to intense questioning and pressure, Joan of Arc maintained her unwavering faith. She refused to recant her visions and continued to assert her divine mission. Unfortunately, the court found her guilty of heresy and she was condemned to death by burning at the stake.

On May 30, 1431, Joan of Arc was executed, but her legacy endured. Decades later, her trial was reviewed, and she was posthumously declared innocent of all charges. She was canonized as a saint in 1920, recognizing not only her remarkable courage but also the enduring power of faith and the strength to stand up for one's convictions.

Joan of Arc's story is a testament to the extraordinary courage of an individual who stood firm in the face of adversity, defending her beliefs and her sense of purpose. Her unwavering faith continues to inspire people around the world, transcending time and boundaries.