Jules Cardinal Mazarin

Jules Cardinal Mazarin, born Giulio Raimondo Mazzarino (July 14 1602, Pescina, Italy – March 9 1661, Vincennes, France) served as the chief minister of France from 1642, until his death. Mazarin succeeded his mentor, Cardinal Richelieu.

Biography

Mazarin's early military and diplomatic experience, which marked him as a friend of France in the contests between French and Spanish factions in papal politics, recommended him to Richelieu. As papal vice-legate at Avignon (1632), and nuncio extraordinary in France (1634), Mazarin was perceived as an extension of Richelieu's policy, and under Habsburg pressure, Mazarin was dismissed by Urban VIII, January 17, 1636. Mazarin immediately went to Paris, offered his services to Richelieu and was naturalized as a French citizen by April. The apex of his diplomatic services was the secret treaty between France and Tomasso of Savoy signed late in 1640. The following year, at Richelieu's insistence, Mazarin made cardinal.

Related Topics:
Avignon - Nuncio extraordinary - Habsburg - Urban VIII - Tomasso of Savoy - Cardinal

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As Louis XIII died in 1643, and Louis XIV was only a child — Mazarin functioned essentially as the ruler of France: although the 5-year-old Louis XIV became king in 1643, under the regency of queen mother Anne of Austria, and until his death in 1661, Mazarin directed French policy. His modest manner contrasted with the imperious Richelieu, and Anne was so fond of him and so intimate in her manner with him, that long-standing rumors hinted that they had been secretly married and that the Dauphin was their offspring.

Related Topics:
Louis XIII - Louis XIV - Child - King - 1643 - Regency - Anne of Austria - Dauphin

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