It's got something to do with Henry IV and France, but I can't find it... anyone know?
2006-10-12 07:32:10 · 3 answers · asked by Mr. Golden 2 in Arts & Humanities ➔ History
Statement attributed to Henry IV, King of France, or Henry of Navarre. He became the legal heir to the throne when the brother of Henry III died. The Catholic League refused to allow a Huguenot to become heir (Henry was a Protestant). After Henry III died, Henry IV defeated League forces. He then converted to Catholicism and assumed the position of King. He was one of the first to practice realpolitik, using it before the word was even used. He regarded his own beliefs as inconsequential when compared with the greater good. He wanted what was best for France, regardless of his own desires. He felt that his need to stay a Protestant was overshadowed by the need for him to become king. Henry IV also demonstrated realpolitik when he issued the Edict of Nantes, which gave the Huguenots certain religious rights. "Paris is worth a mass" is a great quotation for showing the fundamentals of this new type of enlightened rule.
2006-10-12 09:55:41 · answer #1 · answered by Ylia 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Henri of Navarre (who was a Protestant) converted in order to be crowned king and rule over France.
In other words, his religious scruples did not prevent him from attending Catholic Mass if it meant he could be king.
2006-10-12 07:42:02 · answer #2 · answered by blueprairie 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
He was protestent, but was willing to become catholic to become king of France.
2006-10-12 07:44:30 · answer #3 · answered by ysk 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋