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1685 – Louis XIV revokes the edict of Nantes

1685 Louis XIV revokes the edict of Nantes

Louis XIV ended religious tolerance in 1685.

Louis XIV revokes the edict of Nantes by the edict of Fontainebleau. The edict of Nantes was promulgated in 1598 by Henry IV to end religious wars and to grant civil rights and limited freedom of worship to Protestants.

The revocation prohibits Protestant worship, firm temples and schools and results in forced conversions. Many Protestants fled the kingdom, causing significant human and economic loss.

This act reflects the desire of Louis XIV to impose Catholic religious unity and remains a major symbol of religious intolerance under the Old Regime.