Odet de Selve facts for kids

Odet de Selve (born around 1504, died in 1563) was an important diplomat from France. A diplomat is someone who represents their country in other nations. They work to keep peace and good relationships between countries.

Who Was Odet de Selve?

Odet de Selve played a big role in French politics during his time. He helped the King of France deal with other countries. His work was very important for France's relationships with its neighbors.

Early Life and Family

Odet de Selve was the son of Jean de Selve. His father was also a very important person in France. Jean de Selve was a top judge in cities like Rouen and Bordeaux. He also worked for the King of France as an ambassador in other countries, like Milan.

Starting His Career

Odet de Selve followed in his father's footsteps. In 1540, he became a "councillor" in the parlement of Paris. A parlement was a high court of justice at that time. Two years later, in 1542, he joined the grand council, which was another important group that advised the king.

Important Diplomatic Missions

Odet de Selve traveled a lot for his diplomatic work. He visited many countries to represent France. His missions helped shape important events in Europe.

Working in England

In 1546, Odet de Selve was sent to England. This happened after a peace agreement called the treaty of Ardres was signed. A treaty is a formal agreement between countries. While in England, Odet reported back to France about the final days of King Henry VIII's rule.

Missions to Italy

Later, in 1550, Odet de Selve went to Venice, a city in Italy. After that, he traveled to Rome, another important city in Italy. In Rome, he helped with the election of a new leader for the Catholic Church. This leader became Pope Paul IV in 1555. A Pope is the head of the Roman Catholic Church.

His Lasting Legacy

Many of Odet de Selve's letters still exist today. These letters are like historical records. They tell us a lot about his diplomatic work and the events of his time. For example, in one letter from July 31, 1548, he wrote about the siege of Haddington. A siege is when an army surrounds a place to try and capture it. He also mentioned that Mary, Queen of Scots, had sailed from Scotland to France.