Religious strife in Europe encompassed most of the great powers of Europe as they plunged into the Thirty Years’ War in the seventeenth century. The struggle involved not only religious issues, but also political contentions that widened the scope of hostilities. In France, affairs of state highly complicated relations between the Catholic leaders and the Huguenots (Protestants). This statement by Cardinal Richelieu, advisor to King Louis VIII (or, more realistically, his mother Marie de Medici), indicates the cardinal’s desire to keep the French monarchy absolute at the expense of the aristocrats and the Huguenots. Read carefully to see what Richelieu says are the main problems that he must overcome.
Cardinal Richelieu, Political Testament
- Richelieu lists several impediments to royal control in France. What are they and why do you think he sees them as problems?
- What impact do you think Richelieu’s suggestions for strengthening France would have on the religious wars of Europe at this time?
