Henri De La Tour D Auvergne Duke Of Bouillon
Henri De La Tour D Auvergne Duke Of Bouillon is a name that may not be familiar to many in the United States, but in France, he is well known as a brave soldier and a skilled diplomat during the 17th century. He was born in Sedan, France, in 1611, and died in Paris in 1675. He was a member of the House of La Tour d'Auvergne, which was one of the most prominent families in France during that time.
Early Life and Military Career
Henri De La Tour D Auvergne Duke Of Bouillon was the second son of Henri De La Tour, Vicomte de Turenne, and Elizabeth of Nassau, who was the daughter of William the Silent of Orange. His father was also a famous military commander, and he fought for the Protestant cause during the religious wars that plagued France during the 16th and 17th centuries. Young Henri inherited his father's love for warfare and decided to pursue a military career.
He started his military career as a young man, and he quickly made a name for himself as a brave and skillful soldier. He fought in many battles, and he was known for his ability to read the battlefield and make quick decisions that often turned the tide of battle in favor of his side. He was also known for his courage, and he was always the first to charge into battle.
Conversion to Catholicism
In 1630, Henri De La Tour D Auvergne Duke Of Bouillon converted to Catholicism, which was a significant event in his life. At that time, France was ruled by the Catholic monarch Louis XIII, and being a Protestant was a disadvantage for anyone who wanted to advance in life. Henri converted to Catholicism to improve his chances of advancing in the military and in society.
The conversion was not easy for Henri, and it caused a rift with his father, who remained a Protestant until the end of his life. Despite the differences in their religious beliefs, Henri and his father remained close until his father's death in 1645.
Marriage and Family
In 1642, Henri De La Tour D Auvergne Duke Of Bouillon married Elisabeth of Nassau-Siegen, who was his first cousin once removed. She was the daughter of his mother's brother, and they had known each other since childhood. They had five children together, two sons, and three daughters.
Henri was a devoted husband and father, and he spent much of his free time with his family. He was also a patron of the arts, and he often invited musicians, artists, and writers to his home to entertain and educate his children.
Diplomatic Career
Henri De La Tour D Auvergne Duke Of Bouillon was not only a skilled military commander but also an excellent diplomat. He served as the French ambassador to the Netherlands and Sweden, and he was instrumental in negotiating peace treaties between France and those countries.
In 1662, Henri played a key role in negotiating the Treaty of Montmartre between France and Spain, which ended the war between those two countries. The treaty was a significant achievement for Henri, and it earned him praise and recognition from the French king, Louis XIV.
Death and Legacy
Henri De La Tour D Auvergne Duke Of Bouillon died on December 27, 1675, in Paris, at the age of 64. He was buried in the church of Saint-Louis-des-Invalides, which was reserved for military leaders and heroes.
Henri De La Tour D Auvergne Duke Of Bouillon was not only a skilled military commander and a talented diplomat, but he was also a man of great courage and honor. He dedicated his life to serving his country, and his legacy continues to inspire people today. He was a true hero of France, and his memory will live on forever.
