Who was André-Hercule de Fleury?

André-Hercule de Fleury was a French Catholic prelate who held significant positions as the Bishop of Fréjus and later as the chief minister to King Louis XV of France. He was also elevated to the rank of cardinal.

When and where was André-Hercule de Fleury born?

André-Hercule de Fleury was born in Lodève, located in the Hérault region of France, on either June 22 or June 26, 1653.

When and where did André-Hercule de Fleury die?

André-Hercule de Fleury died on January 29, 1743, in Issy-les-Moulineaux, France, at the age of 89.

What was Fleury's familial background?

Fleury hailed from a noble family and was the son of a tax farmer.

How was Fleury educated?

Fleury received his education in Paris from the Jesuits, where he studied philosophy and the Classics, in addition to theology.

What were Fleury's initial roles within the church and royal court?

After entering the priesthood, Fleury served as an almoner to Maria Theresa, the queen of Louis XIV, and subsequently held the same position for Louis XIV himself.

When did Fleury serve as Bishop of Fréjus, and what led him to seek a different position?

Fleury was appointed Bishop of Fréjus in 1698 and served for seventeen years. After this period in a provincial see, he decided to pursue a position at the royal court.

What significant role did Fleury play in the upbringing of Louis XV?

Fleury served as the tutor to Louis XV, who was the king's great-grandson and heir. He cultivated a strong and lasting influence over the young prince, fostered by Louis's affection and trust.

How did Fleury ascend to the position of chief minister?

Fleury became chief minister on June 11, 1726. He initially suggested Louis Henri, Duke of Bourbon, for the role but later took direct control when Bourbon attempted to limit his influence. Louis XV then placed affairs in Fleury's hands.

When was Fleury made a cardinal, and by which Pope?

Fleury was created a cardinal in 1726 by Pope Benedict XIII, a distinction that confirmed his precedence in governmental affairs.

Did Fleury hold the formal title of First Minister?

No, Fleury consistently declined the formal title of First Minister, even though he effectively managed the government's affairs. His cardinalate served to solidify his authority.

What were Fleury's key financial policies for France?

Fleury implemented prudent financial policies, including fixing the currency's standard and ensuring regular interest payments on the national debt. These measures helped to stabilize French credit and led to a budget surplus by 1738/39.

How did Fleury's administration improve France's infrastructure?

Fleury's government improved France's road network by utilizing forced labor from peasants, a system known as the corvée. While beneficial for infrastructure, this practice generated significant public discontent.

What was the general economic impact of Fleury's ministry on France?

During Fleury's seventeen-year administration, France experienced a period of recuperation and increased national prosperity, recovering from the strains of previous wars and the extravagances of the regency.

How did Fleury deal with religious dissent, specifically the Jansenists?

Fleury took severe measures against the Jansenists. He enforced Pope Clement XI's bull Unigenitus, imprisoned priests who resisted it, and exiled members of the Parlement of Paris who opposed his religious policies.

What was Fleury's primary objective in foreign policy?

A key objective for Fleury in foreign policy was the maintenance of peace, a goal he shared with his contemporary, Sir Robert Walpole. This focus allowed him to avoid war with Britain throughout his ministry.

What was Fleury's position on Freemasonry?

Fleury was opposed to Freemasonry and actively encouraged Pope Clement XII to issue a papal bull in 1738 that prohibited Roman Catholics from joining the organization, threatening excommunication for violators.

How did Fleury handle Spain's ambitions in Italy during his tenure?

Fleury showed reluctance but ultimately supported Queen Elizabeth Farnese of Spain's efforts to secure territories for Don Carlos, guaranteeing his succession to the duchies of Parma and Tuscany in 1729.

Describe Fleury's covert involvement with Corsican revolutionaries.

Fleury pursued a complex policy regarding Corsica, secretly supplying arms to the island's revolutionaries while assuring Genoa of French support. This strategy laid the groundwork for France's eventual acquisition of Corsica in 1768.

What was the state of France's military preparedness at the start of the War of the Polish Succession?

Fleury's policy of economizing on the army and navy meant that France was not well-prepared when the War of the Polish Succession erupted in 1733.

What role did France play in the War of the Polish Succession?

France supported Stanislaus Leszczynski's claim to the Polish throne, although an expedition to Gdańsk was unsuccessful. However, through alliances and military campaigns against Austria, France achieved favorable terms in the Treaty of Vienna (1735-1738).

How did Fleury's government approach the Pragmatic Sanction?

Initially, Fleury's government guaranteed Maria Theresa's succession under the Pragmatic Sanction. However, when the War of the Austrian Succession began in 1740, Fleury found a diplomatic pretext to repudiate this commitment.

What was the impact of Fleury's death on the period of European peace?

Fleury's death in 1743 coincided with the end of the long period of relative peace (1713-1744), often called the Thirty Years' Peace. Escalating tensions soon led to war with Britain in March 1744.

What cultural contributions did Fleury make?

Fleury enriched the royal library by acquiring and donating numerous valuable oriental manuscripts. He was also an active member of several prestigious academic societies.

Which academic societies was Fleury a member of?

Fleury was a member of the Académie Française starting in 1717, as well as the French Academy of Sciences and the Academy of Inscriptions.

Who painted the official portrait of Cardinal de Fleury?

The official portrait of Cardinal de Fleury was painted by the renowned artist Hyacinthe Rigaud.

Where is the official portrait of Cardinal de Fleury located?

The official portrait of Cardinal de Fleury, created by Hyacinthe Rigaud, is housed at the Château de Versailles.

What was the significance of Fleury's long tenure as chief minister for Louis XV's reign?

Fleury served as chief minister for the majority of Louis XV's personal rule, providing stability and guiding the nation through a period of recovery and peace, thus significantly shaping the early part of the king's reign.

How did Fleury's fiscal policies affect French credit?

By ensuring the regular payment of interest on the national debt and stabilizing the currency, Fleury's prudent financial management significantly improved France's creditworthiness.

What actions did Fleury take against the Parlement of Paris when they opposed his policies?

When the Parlement of Paris resisted his policies, Fleury responded by exiling forty of its members to a luxurious confinement known as a "gilded cage," demonstrating his firm approach to dissent.

What was the public reaction to Fleury's policy of using forced labor for road improvements?

The use of forced labor, or corvée, for road construction under Fleury's government, while improving infrastructure, generated considerable anger and discontent among the peasantry, which later surfaced during the French Revolution.

How did Fleury's foreign policy differ from that of Louis XIV or the Regent?

Fleury's foreign policy prioritized the maintenance of peace, contrasting with the more interventionist and expansionist approaches of Louis XIV and the Regent. His focus was on stability and avoiding costly wars, particularly with Britain.

What was the outcome of France's involvement in the War of the Polish Succession under Fleury?

Although France was initially unprepared, Fleury's government supported Stanislaus Leszczynski, leading to military engagements that ultimately resulted in favorable terms for France through the Treaty of Vienna (1735-1738).

What diplomatic strategy did Fleury employ concerning the Pragmatic Sanction?

Fleury initially supported Maria Theresa's succession under the Pragmatic Sanction but later exploited a diplomatic loophole to withdraw French support when the War of the Austrian Succession commenced, influenced by factions favoring war.

How did Fleury's personal characteristics influence his governance?

Fleury's governance was marked by his imperturbable demeanor, frugality, and prudence, qualities he applied to state administration, contributing significantly to France's financial recovery and stability.

What is the historical context of the 'Thirty Years' Peace' and Fleury's role?

The 'Thirty Years' Peace' refers to the period of relative European tranquility from 1713 to 1744. Cardinal Fleury, along with Cardinal Dubois and Philippe D'Orléans, was a key figure in maintaining this peace, especially by avoiding conflict with Britain.

What financial innovations were introduced during the Regency that preceded Fleury's ministry?

During the Regency, the economist John Law introduced modern financial measures such as a national bank and paper money. However, excessive speculation led to a market crash, discrediting these policies and leaving French finances in a precarious state.

What was the social consequence of Fleury's actions against the Jansenists?

Fleury's stringent measures against the Jansenists, including the imprisonment of clergy and the exile of parliament members, significantly disrupted social harmony within France.

What was the impact of Fleury's cost-saving measures on the French military?

Fleury's implementation of economies in the army and navy resulted in France being inadequately prepared when it became involved in the War of the Polish Succession in 1733.

What was the ultimate fate of Fleury's peace-oriented foreign policy?

While Fleury successfully navigated France through years of peace, his policies could not prevent the nation's eventual involvement in major conflicts like the War of the Austrian Succession and the war with Britain, which broke out shortly after his death.

What specific cultural contribution did Fleury make?

Fleury enhanced the royal library's collection by acquiring and donating many valuable oriental manuscripts.

What was the nature of the diplomatic relationship between Fleury and Sir Robert Walpole?

Fleury and Sir Robert Walpole, the British minister, shared a mutual interest in maintaining peace between France and Britain, successfully preventing war between the two nations during Fleury's time as chief minister.

How did Fleury's policy towards Corsican revolutionaries reflect his diplomatic approach?

Fleury's strategy involved secretly providing arms to Corsican revolutionaries while publicly assuring Genoa of French neutrality or support. This complex approach initiated the process that eventually led to France's annexation of Corsica.

What was the consequence of Fleury's foreign policy regarding the War of the Polish Succession?

Despite initial military unpreparedness, Fleury's government supported Stanislaus Leszczynski, leading to military actions that secured favorable terms for France in the Treaty of Vienna (1735-1738).

What does the infobox caption about Cardinal de Fleury's portrait reveal?

The infobox caption states that the official portrait of Cardinal de Fleury was created by Hyacinthe Rigaud and is displayed at the Château de Versailles.

What does the image caption 'The duc d'Orléans' Council with Cardinal Fleury' imply about Fleury's early career?

The caption suggests that Cardinal Fleury was involved in important government discussions and councils even during the regency period of the duc d'Orléans, prior to his formal appointment as chief minister.

What was the general sentiment regarding Fleury's governance in terms of national recovery?

Fleury's administration was characterized by order and prudence, allowing France to recover its strength and increase national prosperity after the costly conflicts and expenditures of the preceding era.

What specific action did Fleury take against the Parlement of Paris when they opposed his policies?

When the Parlement of Paris resisted his policies, Fleury responded by exiling forty of its members to a luxurious confinement known as a "gilded cage," demonstrating his firm approach to dissent.

What was the nature of Fleury's diplomatic approach to the War of the Austrian Succession?

Fleury initially committed France to guaranteeing Maria Theresa's succession but later used a diplomatic technicality to withdraw support when the war began, influenced by court factions advocating for military engagement.

What was the 'Thirty Years' Peace' and who were its primary architects besides Fleury?

The 'Thirty Years' Peace' refers to the period of relative European tranquility from 1713 to 1744. Cardinal Fleury, along with Cardinal Dubois and Philippe D'Orléans, was a key figure in maintaining this peace, especially by avoiding conflict with Britain.

What financial innovations were introduced during the Regency that preceded Fleury's ministry?

During the Regency, the economist John Law introduced modern financial measures such as a national bank and paper money. However, excessive speculation led to a market crash, discrediting these policies and leaving French finances in a precarious state.

Andr U00e9-hercule De Fleury Wiki: The Cardinal's Counsel: André-Hercule de Fleury's Era of Influence

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Overview

A Statesman's Ascent

Andr\u00e9-Hercule de Fleury (1653\u20131743) was a distinguished French Catholic prelate who rose to prominence as the Bishop of Fr\u00e9jus and later served as the influential First Minister of France under King Louis XV. His elevation to Cardinal in 1726 by Pope Benedict XIII solidified his position as a key figure in French governance and European diplomacy.

Ecclesiastical Foundation

Born in Lod\u00e8ve, Fleury received his education from the Jesuits in Paris, focusing on philosophy and theology. He entered the priesthood and, through the patronage of Cardinal Bonzi, became an almoner to Queen Maria Theresa and subsequently to King Louis XIV. His appointment as Bishop of Fr\u00e9jus in 1698 marked the beginning of his significant ecclesiastical career.

Guiding Louis XV

Fleury's influence extended to the young Louis XV, whom he tutored. This relationship fostered a deep trust that proved instrumental in Fleury's later political ascendancy. Despite his advanced age, Fleury skillfully managed court politics, eventually assuming control of state affairs and guiding France through a period of relative stability and recovery.

Government and Reform

Financial Prudence

Upon assuming leadership in 1726, Fleury inherited a challenging financial landscape. He implemented measures to stabilize the currency and restore French credit by ensuring the regular payment of interest on the national debt. This fiscal discipline, enforced through ministers like Philibert Orry, led to a budget surplus by 1738/39, a notable achievement after years of deficit.

Infrastructure and Discontent

Fleury's administration focused on improving national infrastructure, notably through the extensive use of the corv\u00e9e (forced labor) for road construction. While these efforts enhanced France's transportation network, they also generated significant popular discontent, sowing seeds of future unrest.

Internal Strife

Internally, Fleury's government faced challenges from religious and political factions. His firm stance against the Jansenists, including the imprisonment of dissenting priests and the exile of members of the Parlement of Paris, led to considerable social and political friction.

Diplomacy and Conflict

A Peace Broker

Fleury shared a commitment to maintaining peace with his contemporary, Sir Robert Walpole of Great Britain. For much of his tenure, he successfully navigated international relations to avoid large-scale conflicts, contributing to a period often referred to as the "Thirty Years' Peace" (1713-1744).

Navigating European Wars

Despite his preference for peace, Fleury was drawn into European conflicts. He supported Stanislaus Leszczynski in the War of the Polish Succession and later engaged France in the War of the Austrian Succession. While initially cautious, French military actions secured favorable treaty terms, though Fleury's diplomatic maneuvering, particularly regarding Maria Theresa's succession, proved complex and ultimately controversial.

Corsican Policy

Fleury's administration engaged in a subtle, long-term strategy concerning Corsica. While assuring Genoese authorities of French neutrality, his government covertly supplied arms to Corsican revolutionaries. This calculated policy laid the groundwork for France's eventual acquisition of Corsica in 1768.

Ecclesiastical Role

Cardinalate and Influence

Fleury's journey through the church hierarchy culminated in his creation as a Cardinal-priest by Pope Benedict XIII in 1726. This title underscored his spiritual authority and enhanced his political standing within France and across Catholic Europe.

Academic Patronage

Beyond his administrative duties, Fleury was a patron of the arts and sciences. He enriched the royal library with valuable oriental manuscripts and was an esteemed member of prestigious academic institutions, including the Acad\u00e9mie Fran\u00e7aise, the Academy of Sciences, and the Academy of Inscriptions.

Enduring Legacy

A Period of Stability

Cardinal Fleury's seventeen years of governance are often characterized by a focus on fiscal responsibility, administrative order, and the maintenance of peace. His policies allowed France to recuperate from the costly ambitions of Louis XIV and the excesses of the Regency, fostering a period of national recovery and increased prosperity.

Stabilized French finances and currency.
Improved national infrastructure through road development.
Maintained a period of relative peace in foreign policy.
Enriched the royal library with significant manuscript collections.
Served as a respected member of multiple French academies.

Historical Context

Fleury's era concluded shortly before the outbreak of major European conflicts like the War of the Austrian Succession. His careful, often cautious, approach to governance and diplomacy shaped France's position in the mid-18th century, leaving a legacy of measured statecraft.

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References

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The Cardinal's Counsel

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Overview 📜

👑 A Statesman's Ascent

✝️ Ecclesiastical Foundation

⏳ Guiding Louis XV

Government and Reform 🏛️

💰 Financial Prudence

🛣️ Infrastructure and Discontent

⚖️ Internal Strife

Diplomacy and Conflict 🌍

🕊️ A Peace Broker

⚔️ Navigating European Wars

🌐 Corsican Policy

Ecclesiastical Role ⛪

🇻🇦 Cardinalate and Influence

📚 Academic Patronage

Enduring Legacy ⏳

🏛️ A Period of Stability

📜 Historical Context

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

A Statesman's Ascent

Ecclesiastical Foundation

Guiding Louis XV

Government and Reform

Financial Prudence

Infrastructure and Discontent

Internal Strife

Diplomacy and Conflict

A Peace Broker

Navigating European Wars

Corsican Policy

Ecclesiastical Role

Cardinalate and Influence

Academic Patronage

Enduring Legacy

A Period of Stability

Historical Context

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice