The Intolerant Decade refers to the period in France from 1685 to 1695, marked by increased religious persecution of Protestants (Huguenots) under the reign of King Louis XIV. During this time, Louis XIV pursued a policy of Catholic absolutism, which involved suppressing Protestantism and enforcing religious uniformity throughout France.
Reasons for the Intolerant Decade:
1. Revocation of the Edict of Nantes (1685): The most significant event that marked the beginning of the Intolerant Decade was the revocation of the Edict of Nantes by Louis XIV in 1685. This edict, signed by King Henry IV in 1598, had granted significant religious freedom and rights to Protestants in France, including the right to worship freely and to hold public offices. The revocation of this edict stripped Protestants of these rights and restricted their religious practices.
2. Dragonnades: In an effort to force Protestants to convert to Catholicism, Louis XIV employed a brutal tactic known as "dragonnades." Dragoons, which were mounted military police, were quartered in Protestant homes and communities and subjected the inhabitants to various forms of harassment and abuse, including physical violence, looting, and property damage. This coercive method was aimed at breaking the resistance of Protestants and compelling them to renounce their faith.
3. Suppression of Protestant Churches and Schools: Protestant churches were shut down and their pastors were either forced to convert or exiled from France. Protestant schools were also closed, further limiting the education and religious instruction of Protestant children.
4. Mass Emigration of Huguenots: The Intolerant Decade led to a mass exodus of Huguenots from France. Thousands of Protestants fled the country to seek religious freedom in neighboring Protestant countries such as the Dutch Republic, England, Prussia, and Switzerland. This emigration not only depleted France of skilled workers and artisans but also weakened its economy.
5. Impact on Cultural and Intellectual Life: The Intolerant Decade also had a profound impact on the cultural and intellectual life of France. Many famous writers, philosophers, and scientists who were Protestants were forced to leave the country, depriving France of their contributions and talents. The suppression of intellectual freedom and religious diversity hindered intellectual progress and stifled scientific and philosophical discourse.
The Intolerant Decade marked a period of intense religious persecution and intolerance in France, leaving a lasting impact on the country's religious and cultural landscape. It also highlighted the dangers of religious extremism and the importance of religious freedom and tolerance in society.