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Charles IX LS 1566

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:1,000.00 USD Estimated At:NA
Charles IX LS 1566
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King Charles IX letter signed as King of France, dated 10 October 1566, amidst the French Wars of Religion, a fraught period of infighting between French Catholics and Protestants (Huguenots). Trying to placate both sides of his constituency would lead Charles, just prior to this letter, to support Catholics in the area of Flanders after hearing of destruction of Catholic symbols there. Coupled with Philip II of Spain's offer to militarily support the French Catholics, the Huguenots began to fear attack (they ultimately tried to kidnap Charles and his family the following year). Here, in this letter, King Charles IX considers allowing King Philip II to march the Spanish army across France into Flanders, a move which would have inextricably bound Charles with the cause of Catholicism; ultimately, Charles chose not to pursue this course of action. Erupting approximately four years prior to this letter, the French Wars of Religion would alternately subside and fester into outbursts of violence throughout France and Europe until the 18th century; these tensions marked the beginning of the Thirty Years' War and led to the formation of the independent Dutch Republic. Single page French letter, with a large (2.25'' x 1'') and bold ''Charles'' signature, measures 8.75'' x 12.75''. Original wax seal still intact. Some chipping along edges and expected toning, else in near fine condition.