Henri Coiffier de Ruzé, Marquis of Cinq-Mars facts for kids
Henri Coiffier de Ruzé, Marquis of Cinq-Mars (born 1620 – died 12 September 1642) was a close friend and trusted companion of King Louis XIII of France. He became known for leading a secret plan against Cardinal Richelieu. Richelieu was the king's very powerful chief minister. Cinq-Mars's plan was one of the most serious attempts to challenge Richelieu's power.
Early Life and Career
Henri Coiffier de Ruzé, Marquis of Cinq-Mars, was the son of Marshal Antoine Coiffier de Ruzé, marquis d'Effiat. His father was a good friend of Cardinal Richelieu. When Cinq-Mars's father passed away in 1632, Richelieu took the young boy under his care.
Coming to Court
Because his father was a famous Superintendent of Finances and a friend of Richelieu, Cinq-Mars came to the royal court at a young age. In 1639, Richelieu introduced Cinq-Mars to King Louis XIII. Richelieu hoped that Cinq-Mars would become a favorite of the king. This would allow Richelieu to have even more influence over the king.
Cinq-Mars quickly became a royal favorite. He was given an important title, Grand Squire of France. This meant he was in charge of the king's horses and stables. Richelieu thought he could easily control Cinq-Mars. However, Cinq-Mars began to ask the king for important favors. He also tried to convince the king to remove Richelieu from power.
Secret Plans Against Richelieu
In 1641, Cinq-Mars joined a rebellion led by the Comte de Soissons. This effort to challenge Richelieu's power did not succeed. The next year, Cinq-Mars made another secret plan. He worked with the king's brother, Gaston, Duke of Orleans. They tried to get help for their plan from Philip IV, the King of Spain.
Cardinal Richelieu had a very good spy network. His spies discovered Cinq-Mars's secret dealings with Spain. As a result, Richelieu had Cinq-Mars arrested.
His Final Days
Cinq-Mars was imprisoned and later executed in Lyon. His friend, François Auguste de Thou, who was also involved in the plan, was executed with him. It is said that King Louis XIII showed no strong feelings about the execution. Cinq-Mars's last words were, "My God! What is this world?"
