Joan of Arc is a perfect example for teenagers today that are facing difficult times and problems. Her courage can help those of us who want to make a difference.

Joan of Arc was born on the sixth of January 1412. Her birthplace was in the Village of Domrenmy, in France. She was known for being obedient to her parents, a loving sister, a kindly neihbor, gentleness, charity, and holiness. Like most girls she did not know how to read or write. When Joan was seventeen she heard voices from St. Micheal, St. Catherine, and St. Margaret, which she felt, were from heaven. She belived that that they were telling her that she was the one chosen to liberate her oppressed country from the English. She had heard of the wars but never really paid much attentionn to them. She went, at the age of seventeen, to get some escorts, armor, and to commander a horse, because she had to see the king. They thought that she was really silly, and they laughed at her, but they gave into her. Joan met the heir it was the French Throne, Charles VII and convinced him that she was on a mission of God. He tested her to make sure she really had powers from heaven. She proved this and received a sword, a banner, and became commander over the king`s troops.

At first the troops didn`t want to obey her, but they soon gave in. They won four battles against the English. Her orders were of a military genius. Joan carried a sword during battle, but never fought with it.

July of 1429 Charles the King of France was crowned with Joan at his side. During this time the voices told Joan that her mission had ended. The King and the generals insisted that Joan keep command of the army even though she knew her mission was over.

At Conpfine on May 23, 1430 Joan was captured and imprisoned. The English found Joan guilty about lying about the voices and called her a heretic. Her last words were "Jesus, Jesus."

On May 30 she was burned at the stake in a marketplace. After her death there was a re-trial in which she was found not guilty. She was named a Saint for her bravery and courage in 1920.

St. Joan of Arc is an example of how even a peastant girl made a huge difference in history.