France and the Habsburgs: a Clash of Empires with Olivier Courteaux
November 9 @ 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm EST
The relations between the Habsburg dynasty and France, from the 16th century to 1918, have fluctuated over the centuries. A look at this fascinating relationship over 400 years where numerous conflicts, oppositions, tensions, and marriages resulted in political power struggles right up to end of the first World War.
Charles V and Francis I
The rivalry between the Valois king and the Habsburg emperor dominated international relations in Europe during the first half of the 16th century. As the French monarchy gained in power and prestige, Francis I came to resent the expansion of the Habsburgs into western Europe. Wars were fought, followed by fragile peace treaties, the two men seeking to outmaneuver the other on the European diplomatic chess board. Who won the day? Let’s find out…
In the series:
Nov. 9: Charles V and Francis I
Nov. 16: Louis XIV, the Habsburgs and the War of Spanish Succession
Nov. 23: Reversal of alliances
Nov. 30: The Habsburgs and Napoleon
Dec. 7: France and the Austrian-Hungarian Empire during WW1
