St Bartholomew's Day Massacre

What was the St Bartholomew's Day Massacre?

The St Bartholomew's Day Massacre was a direct attack on the Huguenots, French Protestants, in August 1572.

Why did the St Bartholomew's Day Massacre happen?

From 1562 to 1598, France was fighting a religious civil war. King Charles IX had ordered the assassination of some key Huguenot leaders because it was believed they were plotting rebellion and a war with Spain. The violence spread through Paris and France.

How many died during the St Bartholomew's Day Massacre?

It is estimated that 3,000 Huguenots were murdered in Paris, and a further 70,000 throughout the rest of France.

How was the St Bartholomew's Day Massacre a turning point in the French Wars of Religion?

The St Bartholomew's Day Massacre is considered a turning point in the French Wars of Religion, because the Huguenots lost many of their leaders, essentially crippling the movement.