Question

Explain how the treatment of French Huguenots change?

1) The treatment of French Huguenots did not change
2) French Huguenots were treated more harshly over time
3) French Huguenots were initially treated harshly, but later granted some rights
4) French Huguenots were initially granted rights, but later discriminated against

Answer 1

Initially, French Huguenots faced persecution for their beliefs, which eased with the Edict of Nantes granting religious rights. These rights were revoked by Louis XIV in 1685, leading to renewed persecution and the flight of many Huguenots to other countries.

Step-by-step explanation:

Over the course of their history, the treatment of the French Huguenots underwent significant changes. These changes can be summarized as an initial period of harsh treatment, followed by a grant of rights, which were later rescinded leading to renewed discrimination. French Huguenots were persecuted early on due to their rejection of Catholicism and adoption of Calvinist Protestantism. The religious conflict culminated in their participation in a long and brutal war in France.

Peace came temporarily with the Edict of Nantes in 1598, courtesy of Henry IV, who, after converting to Catholicism, allowed Huguenots the liberty of conscience and the liberty of worship. However, in 1685, Louis XIV revoked this edict, and persecution resumed, forcing many Huguenots to flee France for more tolerant regions. The Huguenots who emigrated brought valuable skills and significantly contributed to the societies that provided them refuge.