Cardinal of Bourbon facts for kids

The title Cardinal of Bourbon or Cardinal de Bourbon refers to several important people from a famous French family called the House of Bourbon. These individuals held high positions in the Catholic Church, often serving as cardinals. A cardinal is a very important church leader, usually chosen by the Pope, who helps advise him and sometimes elects new Popes. The Bourbon family was very powerful in France and Spain, and many of its members played key roles in both politics and religion.

Important Church Leaders from the Bourbon Family

The Bourbon family was one of the most important royal families in Europe. They ruled France for many centuries and also held the throne in Spain. Because of their power and influence, many members of the Bourbon family became important church leaders, including cardinals. These cardinals often had a big impact on both religious matters and the political life of their countries.

Who Were the Cardinals of Bourbon?

Several different people were known as a "Cardinal of Bourbon" over the centuries. Each of them had their own unique story and role in history.

Charles II, Duke of Bourbon (1433–1488)

Charles II was born in 1433 and lived until 1488. He was a member of the Bourbon family and also held the title of Duke of Bourbon. Besides his noble title, he became an important church leader, serving as the Archbishop of Lyon. An archbishop is a bishop of the highest rank, overseeing many churches in a large area. Charles II became a cardinal in 1476.

Louis de Bourbon-Vendôme (1493–1557)

Born in 1493, Louis de Bourbon-Vendôme was another significant figure. He was part of the Vendôme branch of the Bourbon family. He rose through the ranks of the church to become the Archbishop of Sens. He was made a cardinal in 1517. Cardinals like Louis often had roles in advising kings and queens, as well as managing church affairs.

Charles, Cardinal de Bourbon (born 1523) (1523–1590)

This Charles was born in 1523 and passed away in 1590. He became the Archbishop of Rouen, an important city in France. He was made a cardinal in 1548. He played a very important role during a difficult time in French history, when there were many conflicts. He was a key figure in both the church and the politics of France during his lifetime.

Charles, Cardinal de Bourbon (born 1562) (1562–1594)

Born in 1562, this Charles was the nephew of the previous Cardinal Charles. He also became the Archbishop of Rouen, following in his uncle's footsteps. He was made a cardinal in 1589. Like his uncle, he was involved in the political and religious events of his time, though his life was shorter, ending in 1594.

Infante Luis of Spain (1727–1785)

Infante Luis was a Spanish prince, born in 1727. He was a son of King Philip V of Spain, making him a member of the Spanish branch of the Bourbon family. He became a cardinal at a young age, in 1735. However, he later decided to leave his church career. He gave up his church titles to marry and live a more private life, showing that not all cardinals stayed in their church roles forever. He died in 1785.

Luis María de Borbón y Vallabriga (1777–1823)

Born in 1777, Luis María was another Spanish Bourbon who became a cardinal in 1800. He was a very important figure in Spain during a time of great change and conflict. He even served as a regent, which means he ruled the country for a period when the king was unable to. He was a strong supporter of new ideas and changes in Spain. He passed away in 1823.

These individuals show how the title "Cardinal of Bourbon" was held by different members of a powerful family, each contributing to the history of the church and their countries in unique ways.

Images for kids

• Charles II, Duke of Bourbon.jpg

  Charles II, Duke of Bourbon

• Louis de Bourbon-Vendôme.jpg

  Louis de Bourbon-Vendôme

• Charles, Cardinal de Bourbon (born 1523).jpg

  Charles, Cardinal de Bourbon (born 1523)

• Charles, Cardinal de Bourbon (born 1562).jpg

  Charles, Cardinal de Bourbon (born 1562)

• Infante Luis of Spain.jpg

  Infante Luis of Spain

• Luis María de Borbón y Vallabriga.jpg

  Luis María de Borbón y Vallabriga