Portraits of Monarchy - Henry V - HENRY V (r. 1413-1422) Soon after his accession, Henry V laid claim to the French crown. Stern and ruthless, Henry was a brilliant general who had gained military experience in his teens, when he fought alongside his father at the battle of Shrewsbury. Well educated, Henry had a particular interest in liturgical music. He died of dysentery in 1422 in Bois de Vincennes, France.