The persecution of the Huguenots in France was just part of a broader persecution of anyone who was not Catholic. Protestants faced discrimination in a few other European countries, as well. The torture and persecution these groups endured led to thousands of deaths. In my opinion, understanding this time period is essential to our grasp of the issues and motivations of so many of our ancestors, so I hope I’m not the only one interested in learning more about it. Once you start looking closely, you’ll find numerous inspiring examples of courage and faith.
Huguenot History has a drop-down menu under “History” to find specific topics.
The French Huguenots is another site with extensive information and many illustrations. It can be downloaded to read offline.
In the Massacre of Vassy, March 1, 1562, Huguenots were attacked by French troops. Hundreds were killed. (below)
In August of 1572, St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre caused the death of over 5000 Protestants.
Some Huguenot refugees escaped to South Africa. (below)
King Henri IV of France signed the Edict of Nantes in 1598, guaranteeing freedom of religion for Huguenots and other Protestants. (below)
In 1610, Henri was assassinated, and persecution of Protestants began again. In 1685, the Edict of Nantes was revoked by King Louis XIV, and the persecution got worse. The French King forbade Protestant worship, as well as emigration.
Despite the restraints on emigration, hundreds of thousands of well-educated and highly skilled Huguenots left France and were given refuge in England, Ireland, Holland, South Africa, Germany, New York, and Virginia. These governments welcomed them and gave them religious freedom. (Below, a welcome to Holland)
The persecution of Protestants in France finally ended in 1787, when King Louis XVI signed the Edict of Toleration. Thanks to the American Revolution and the influx of so many European immigrants, Protestant groups in America rapidly increased in membership while the Church of England had less and less influence over the population.
Thank You. My ten times Great Grandfather escaped with his family and ultimately procured New Amsterdam (New York) for the Huguenots. Fascinating history.