Henry IV of France publicly converts from Protestantism to Roman Catholicism.

Henry IV of France, also known as Henri Quatre, was a pivotal figure in French history, reigning from 1589 until his assassination in 1610. Born in 1553 in Pau, he initially ruled as King of Navarre before inheriting the French crown during a time of intense religious conflict—the French Wars of Religion. A Protestant by birth, Henry converted to Catholicism in 1593, reportedly saying, “Paris is well worth a Mass,” in a strategic move to gain acceptance from his mostly Catholic subjects. His conversion helped bring an end to decades of bloody conflict and positioned him as a king who valued political pragmatism over dogmatic rigidity.

Henry IV is perhaps best known for issuing the Edict of Nantes in 1598, a landmark act of religious tolerance that granted significant rights to Huguenots (French Protestants) while affirming Catholicism as the state religion. This edict marked a turning point in French history by promoting civil unity and reducing sectarian violence. Economically and socially, Henry invested in rebuilding France after years of civil war, promoting agriculture, infrastructure, and trade. His leadership laid the groundwork for future stability, and his popularity earned him the affectionate nickname “Good King Henry.” Despite his achievements, he was assassinated in 1610 by a Catholic fanatic, a tragic end that underscored the lingering tensions of the era.