Huguenots

The Huguenots were French Protestants, primarily followers of John Calvin, who emerged in the 16th century during the Protestant Reformation. They faced severe persecution from the predominantly Catholic French government, leading to civil wars and conflicts, such as the Wars of Religion. The Edict of Nantes in 1598 granted them some rights, but it was revoked in 1685, prompting many Huguenots to emigrate to other countries, like England, the Netherlands, and America, seeking religious freedom. Their contributions to culture, commerce, and philosophy have had a lasting impact in various regions where they settled.