The history of the kings of France is rich and complex, covering more than a millennium of historical events from the Merovingian period to the end of the monarchy in France. Here is a brief presentation of the main dynasties and some emblematic figures.
Henry IV, 1589-1610
King of France
The Bourbons (1589-1792)
Henry IV, also known as Henry of Navarre or "Good King Henry", ruled France from 1589 to 1610. He was the first monarch of the Bourbon branch, a dynasty that would reign until 1848. Before becoming king, he was the leader of the Huguenots during the French Wars of Religion.
His accession to the throne was not easy. Catholic by birth, Henry IV converted to Protestantism, which earned him the hostility of the Catholic majority in France. After the death of Henry III, assassinated in 1589, Henry IV became king but had to fight to establish his power. Facing strong resistance, he chose to reconvert to Catholicism in 1593, declaring that "Paris is worth a mass", in order to appease his Catholic subjects and consolidate his reign.
In 1598, he signed the Edict of Nantes, a crucial document that granted freedom of worship to Protestants and ended the religious wars, bringing relative religious peace to France. This edict is often considered one of his greatest accomplishments, as it promoted tolerance and religious coexistence.
His reign was also marked by efforts to restore France's economic prosperity after decades of civil wars. He launched major public works, improved infrastructure and encouraged agriculture, which helped stabilize and enrich the country.
Henry IV was assassinated in 1610 by François Ravaillac, a Catholic fanatic, leaving behind the image of a pragmatic king loved by his people for his efforts for peace and prosperity. His death marked the end of an era of intense conflict and the beginning of a more stable period under the reign of his son, Louis XIII.
3 окт 2024
