# Henry IV converts to Catholicism (1593)

URL: https://history-france.com/timeline/1593-henry-iv-converts-to-catholicism
Location: Saint-Denis

Conversion removed a major obstacle to recognition by many Catholic subjects. Within the broader Renaissance & Wars of Religion period, Renaissance monarchy brought Italian wars, humanist culture and overseas exploration. The Reformation then fractured the kingdom, producing decades of civil war between Catholic and Protestant factions. At this point in the timeline, the relevant governing authority is Henry IV (King of France). Henry IV converts to Catholicism mattered because religion was closely tied to political legitimacy, community identity and public institutions. The event is positioned here so visitors can read it alongside changes in government, warfare, society, religion, culture and France’s wider international setting.

## Why it matters
Henry IV converts to Catholicism mattered because religion was closely tied to political legitimacy, community identity and public institutions.

Ruler at the time: [Henry IV](https://history-france.com/rulers/henry-iv)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia topic lookup — Henry IV converts to Catholicism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search?search=Henry+IV+converts+to+Catholicism&go=Go)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Henry IV converts to Catholicism](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Henry+IV+converts+to+Catholicism)
- [Wikipedia — Timeline of French history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_French_history)