Charles-Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord facts for kids
Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord (February 2, 1754 - May 17, 1838) was a famous French diplomat. A diplomat is someone who represents their country when dealing with other countries.
Talleyrand was very skilled at working with different leaders and governments. He started his career as a bishop and worked for Louis XVI, who was the King of France. But as France changed, so did Talleyrand. He then served the leaders of the French Revolution and later Napoleon I, who became the Emperor of France.
When Napoleon started losing his wars, Talleyrand switched sides again. He then worked for Louis XVIII, who became king after Napoleon. Talleyrand was very important at the Congress of Vienna, a big meeting where European leaders decided how to reorganize Europe after Napoleon's wars. He even served Louis Philippe I later on. Because he worked for so many different rulers, he became known simply as Talleyrand. Many people see him as one of the most clever and important diplomats in European history. He was also known to accept money from other countries, which was a common but sometimes controversial practice for diplomats at the time.
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Who Was Talleyrand?
Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord was born into a noble family in Paris, France. From a young age, it was clear he was very intelligent. He was trained to become a priest, and he eventually became a bishop. However, his true talent was in politics and diplomacy. He was known for his sharp mind and his ability to understand people and situations very well.
His Role in French Politics
Talleyrand lived during a very turbulent time in French history. He saw the end of the French monarchy, the rise and fall of Napoleon, and the return of kings. What made him unique was his ability to adapt and remain influential through all these changes. He always seemed to know which way the political winds were blowing, allowing him to stay in power and serve France, even if it meant changing his loyalties.
Serving Different Leaders
Talleyrand's career shows how much he could adapt. He served King Louis XVI, then played a role in the French Revolution, which overthrew the monarchy. After that, he became a key advisor to Napoleon, helping him with foreign affairs. When Napoleon's empire collapsed, Talleyrand helped bring back the old royal family and served King Louis XVIII. This ability to work with different leaders, even those who were once enemies, made him a legendary figure in diplomacy.
Talleyrand's Legacy
Talleyrand is remembered as a master diplomat. He was known for his calm manner, his cleverness, and his ability to negotiate difficult agreements. He always put the interests of France first, even if it meant making unpopular decisions or switching sides. His work at the Congress of Vienna was especially important because it helped shape Europe for many years after Napoleon's defeat. He showed that diplomacy is about understanding power, people, and knowing when to compromise.
Related pages
Images for kids
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The oath of La Fayette at the Fête de la Fédération, 14 July 1790. Talleyrand, then Bishop of Autun, can be seen at the extreme right. French School, 18th century. Musée Carnavalet.
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An 1815 caricature of Talleyrand – L'Homme aux six têtes (The man with six heads), referring to his prominent role in six different regimes
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Elderly Talleyrand, 1828
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Catherine (Worlée) Grand, princesse de Talleyrand-Périgord, painted by François Gérard 1805–06
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Charles-Maurice, Prince de Talleyrand by François Gérard (1808)
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Château de Valençay
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Talleyrand's orthopedic shoe, now in the Château de Valençay
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Inscription at the Hôtel de Saint-Florentin
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Empire style state bed (lit de parade) made for Talleyrand, c. 1805
See also
In Spanish: Charles Maurice de Talleyrand para niños
