Gaspard II de Coligny

Gaspard II de Coligny (1519-1572) was a key French noble and military leader during the tumultuous Wars of Religion between Catholics and Protestants (Huguenots) in 16th-century France. As an influential Huguenot leader, he fought for religious freedom and sought to protect Protestant interests. Coligny was known for his efforts to build alliances and promote tolerance. His assassination marked a turning point in the conflict and contributed to the violence of the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre in 1572, which intensified the religious strife that plagued France for decades. Coligny's legacy is marked by his commitment to religious reform and statecraft.