Cardinal Richelieu
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Full Name and Common Aliases

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Armand Jean du Plessis de Richelieu was born on September 9, 1585, in the Château de Richelieu in Anjou, France. He is commonly known as Cardinal Richelieu or simply Richelieu.

Birth and Death Dates

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Born: September 9, 1585
Died: December 4, 1642

Nationality and Profession(s)

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Nationality: French
Profession:
Statesman
Politician
Theologian
Cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church

Early Life and Background

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Armand Jean du Plessis de Richelieu was born into a minor noble family. His father, François du Plessis de Richelieu, was a military officer, and his mother, Susanne de La Porte, was from an influential family in France.

Richelieu received a classical education at the College d'Anjou and later studied law and theology at the University of Paris. He became a member of the Catholic Church and began to climb the ranks within the Church's hierarchy.

Major Accomplishments

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Cardinal Richelieu is perhaps best known for his work as Chief Minister of France under King Louis XIII. During his tenure, which lasted from 1624 until his death in 1642, he implemented several significant reforms and policies.

Some of the most notable accomplishments include:

Reorganization of the French government: Richelieu centralized power within the government, creating a more efficient and effective administrative system.
Establishment of the Académie Française: He founded this prestigious institution to promote French culture and language.
Development of the French Navy: Richelieu recognized the importance of a strong naval presence and invested heavily in its development.

Notable Works or Actions

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Cardinal Richelieu was a prolific writer, and many of his works remain influential today. Some notable examples include:

Testament Politique: A comprehensive guide to statecraft and governance that provides insight into Richelieu's views on politics, power, and leadership.
* De la Conjuration des Espagnols et du poison d'Henri III: A historical account of the conspiracy against King Henry III and the subsequent poisoning of the king.

Impact and Legacy

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Cardinal Richelieu had a profound impact on French history. He helped establish France as a major world power, and his policies shaped the country's development for centuries to come.

He is remembered as one of the most influential statesmen in French history, and his legacy continues to be studied by scholars around the world.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

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Cardinal Richelieu is widely quoted and remembered due to his insightful writings on politics and statecraft. His quotes offer practical advice and philosophical perspectives on leadership and governance.

His Testament Politique remains a foundational text in the field of politics, providing guidance for statesmen and policymakers seeking to understand the complexities of power and governance.