Mazarin

Sonnino examines the diplomatic negotiations that took place in Westphalia from 1643 to 1648, which brought an end to the agonizing civil and religious conflict of the Thirty Years' War.

Richelieu and Mazarin by Geoffrey Treasure compares these two striking, but very different, statesmen and evaluates their careers and achievements in the light of modern research. It explores all aspects of the two men's careers including the historical background, their personal characters, aims and values and their experience of power. Geoffrey Treasure also debates altered perceptions of 'absolutism' and the accomplishments of both leaders.

Mazarin was the model statesman of the early modern period in French history. This book follows his career from pupil of the Jesuits, through legate in Paris and Avignon, to service for Louis XIII and beyond. Mazarin's role in the survival of absolute monarchy during the upheavals of the Fronde and his guidance of the young Louis XIV are given full weight. His crucial part in many diplomatic exchanges, and in particular those which brought an end to the Thirty Years War and the Franco-Spanish War, is examined in detail. His life is placed in the context of a study of the times, highlighting the rapidly changing nature of government.