Henry, the eldest son of Henry IV and Mary de Bohun, was born in 1387. Henry was a talented military commander and played an important role in the defeat of Owain Glyn Dwr of Wales in 1408.

As a result of his father's illness. Henry had considerable experience of ruling the country before he was crowned king in 1413. Henry was determined to win back lands lost in France. After invading France in 1415, Henry won a great victory at Agincourt.

Agincourt was followed by other military successes and in 1420 Charles VI agreed to sign the Treaty of Troyes. Under the terms of the treaty Henry married King Charles VI's daughter. It was also agreed that when Charles VI died, Henry V would inherit his kingdom. However, many people in France were unwilling to accept the terms of the treaty and Henry V was forced to return in 1421 to reassert his authority. While Henry was fighting in France, he became very ill (probably dysentery) and died before he could return to England.