kids encyclopedia robot

François Eudes de Mézeray facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Mezeray cour Napoleon Louvre
Mézeray by Louis-Joseph Daumas, Cour Napoléon of the Palais du Louvre

François Eudes de Mézeray (born in 1610 – died July 10, 1683) was an important French historian. He was known for writing detailed books about the history of France. Mézeray also became a member of the famous Académie française, a group that protects the French language.

Early Life and Education

Mézeray was born in a small town called Ri, near Argentan, in France. His father was a surgeon. François had two brothers. One of them, named Jean-Eudes, started a religious group called the Eudists.

François Mézeray went to school at the University of Caen. He then continued his studies at the College of Ste Barbe in Paris. This education helped him become a skilled writer and historian.

A Royal Historian

Mézeray became very well-known for his writing. He wrote a big book called Histoire de France depuis Faramond jusqu'au règne de Louis le juste. This book, published between 1643 and 1651, was a good summary of French history. It used many old French and Latin records.

Because of his talent, Mézeray gained the support of an important person named Pierre Séguier. He was given the special title "Historiographer to the King of France." This meant he was the official historian for the king.

Work with the Académie française

In 1649, Mézeray was invited to join the Académie française. This is a very respected group in France that focuses on the French language and literature. He later became the permanent secretary of the Académie française in 1675.

Mézeray also wrote another popular book called Abrégé chronologique. This book was published in the late 1660s and was very successful. It was printed many times, showing how much people liked his historical writings.

Later Life and Legacy

François Eudes de Mézeray passed away in Paris on July 10, 1683. He left behind a legacy of important historical works. His books helped people learn about France's past. He also translated other works, like a book about Christianity by Hugo Grotius.

Mézeray's work as a historian and his role in the Académie française made him a significant figure in 17th-century France.

Images for kids

kids search engine
François Eudes de Mézeray Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.