Books
Phase
The Fronde
1648–1653
The Fronde began in 1648 during the minority of Louis XIV, when financial pressure, opposition from the Parlement of Paris and resentment of royal government under Cardinal Mazarin produced open political crisis.
The conflict developed through several phases as princes, nobles, magistrates and urban factions formed changing alliances. Royal forces, rebel armies and foreign intervention turned the dispute into a civil war that affected Paris and large parts of France.
By 1653 the monarchy had re-established control. The experience left a lasting impression on Louis XIV and helped shape the later determination to concentrate political authority around the crown.
