- published: 22 Oct 2015
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The Catholic League of France, sometimes referred to by contemporary (and modern) Catholics as the Holy League, was a major participant in the French Wars of Religion. Formed by Henry I, Duke of Guise, in 1576, the League intended the eradication of Protestants—also known as Calvinists or Huguenots—out of Catholic France during the Protestant Reformation, as well as the replacement of King Henry III.
Pope Sixtus V, Philip II of Spain, and the Jesuits were all supporters of this Catholic party.
Confraternities and leagues were established by French Catholics to counter the growing power of the Lutherans, Calvinists and members of the Reformed Church of France. The Protestant Calvinists at that time dominated much of the French nobility, leading to active persecution of Catholics in some regions.
Under the leadership of Henry I, Duke of Guise, the Catholic confraternities and leagues were united as the Catholic League. Guise used the League not only to defend the Catholic cause but also as a political tool in an attempt to usurp the French throne.
( Uneasy EP )
I can see the mountains
Melt the sky into the sea
The birds that fly the trackless air
The creatures in the deep
Where the light just hits the water
Where the earth meets sky
I shall scatter your desire
And mix snow and fire
My heart beats wings my steps are streams