Armand-Jean Duplessis

Armand-Jean Duplessis (1585-1642), also Cardinal de Richelieu or Duc de Richelieu, was one of the greatest statesmen France ever had. He was born in Paris, of a noble family. He was also minister of Louis XIII. From his installation as Prime Minister in 1624, he set himself to the achievement of a threefold purpose, and rested not till he accomplished it - the ruin of the Protestants as a political party, the curtailment of the power of the nobles, and the humiliation of the House of Austria in the councils of Europe.

His administration was signalised by reforms in finance, in the army, and in legislation. As the historian Thierry has said of him, "He left nothing undone that could be done by statesmanship for the social amelioration of the country; he had a mind of the most comprehensive grasp, and a genius for the minutest details of administration." He was a patron of letters, and the founder of the French Academy.

Wisdom & Quotes

• Tout par raison.

Everything according to reason.
- Mirame

John Winthrop

Nearby pages
Armatoles, Armature, Armchair, Armco, Armed camp