Which English commander governed France as regent for Henry VI during Joan of Arc’s campaigns?

John, Duke of Bedford governed the English-held territories in France as regent for Henry VI during Joan of Arc’s campaigns.

Bedford was the younger brother of Henry V and served as regent because Henry VI was still a child when he inherited the English and French claims. The Treaty of Troyes had recognized Henry VI as heir to the French throne in the English-Burgundian political arrangement, while Charles VII remained the rival Valois claimant.

Bedford directed English policy and military operations in France during the period that included the siege of Orléans, the coronation at Reims, and Joan’s capture. He was a central opponent of the Valois cause, although individual commanders handled many battlefield actions.

He is sometimes confused with other English princes, especially Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester, who held important offices in England. Bedford’s regency ended with Henry VI’s increasing personal rule, but Bedford remained an influential figure until his death in 1435.