Cardinal Richelieu

Armand-Jean du Plessis, Duke of Richelieu (1585-1642), known as Cardinal Richelieu, was a skilled politician and Prime Minister of Louis XIII of France. A strong supporter of monarchical power, he reduced the influence of the nobility and favored the bourgeoisie. He created the position of intendant in the provinces. He faced off against the nobility and the Huguenots, leading the French army in the Thirty Years' War. Born in 1585 in Paris, he chose an ecclesiastical career after his father's death. In 1624, he became Prime Minister, balancing between pro-Spanish and anti-Spanish factions. He conquered La Rochelle and suppressed Huguenot rebellions. In foreign policy, he intervened in Italy and formed an alliance with Sweden against Spain. In domestic policy, he was authoritarian. He strengthened the economy, stabilized royal finances, and promoted colonial expansion. He founded the French Academy of Sciences and built the Château de Richelieu. He died in 1642.