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Fransua BoforGrandson of King Henry IV the Great through the collateral line.
Date of Birth: 16.01.1616
Country:  France |
Content:
- Lineage and Early Life
- Military Career and Involvement in the Fronde
- Rise and Fall at Court
- Naval Expeditions and Death
- Character and Personal Life
Lineage and Early Life
François de Bourbon-Vendôme, 2nd Duke of Beaufort, was descended from King Henry IV of France through an illegitimate line. Born on January 16, 1616, he was the second son of César de Bourbon, Duke of Vendôme, and Françoise of Lorraine.
Military Career and Involvement in the Fronde
Beaufort began his military service at an early age, participating in campaigns against Savoy in 1628. He also fought in the sieges of Corbie, Ésdèn, and Arras. Influenced by his father, he became involved in plots against Cardinal Richelieu and was forced to seek refuge at the English court.
Rise and Fall at Court
Upon the death of Louis XIII, Beaufort initially gained favor with Queen Regent Anne of Austria, who held affection for his uncle. However, Beaufort's jealousy of Anne's relationship with Cardinal Mazarin led to his disgrace.
In 1643, Beaufort joined the "Conspiracy of the High-Born" against Mazarin. Arrested and imprisoned in Vincennes, he escaped in 1648 and became a prominent leader of the Fronde. Dubbed the "King of the Markets" by Parisians, he reconciled with the crown in 1653.
Naval Expeditions and Death
King Louis XIV entrusted Beaufort with several military missions. In 1662, he was appointed chief admiral of the French navy. He led successful expeditions against the Algerian and Ottoman forces in the Mediterranean Sea.
On June 25, 1669, during a nighttime raid on Candia (present-day Heraklion) in Crete, Beaufort disappeared without a trace. His body was never recovered, leading to speculation that he might have been the Man in the Iron Mask.
Character and Personal Life
Beaufort was physically imposing and possessed great courage. However, he was also cunning and untruthful. His slow wit and excessive self-indulgence hindered his ability to conceive grand ambitions.
Beaufort's famous stutter and frequent spelling errors were a source of amusement in the court. He engaged in several long-term affairs, the most notable of which was with the Duchess of Montbazon, who aided his escape from prison.
