BOUTHILLIER, CLAUDE, SIEUR DE FOUILLETOURTE (1581-1652), French statesman, began life as an advocate, and in 1619 became councillor of state and a secretary to the queen mother, Marie de'Medici. He received the title of secretary of state in 1628, and he was able to remain on good terms with both Marie de'Medici and Richelieu, in spite of their rivalry. In 1632 he became superintendent of finances. Richelieu employed him on many diplomatic missions, and the success of his foreign policy was due in no small degree to Bouthillier's ability and devotion. He held a unique position of influence in a court torn by jealousies and intrigues. Trusted by the king, the confidant of Richelieu, the friend of Marie de'Medici, and through his son, Leon Bouthillier, who was appointed in 1635 chancellor to Gaston d'Orleans, able to bring his influence to bear on that prince, he was an invaluable mediator ; and he was, next to the cardinal, the most powerful nian in the kingdom. Richelieu made him executor of his will, and Louis XIII. named him a member of the council of regency which he intended should govern the king dom after his death. Bouthillier died in Paris Mar. 13, 165 2.
His son, LEON BOUTHILLIER (1608-1652), comte de Chavigny, was named secretary of state in 1632, and seconded his father's work, so that it is not always easy to distinguish their respective parts. He was arrested twice during the Fronde, but was for a short time in power during Mazarin's exile (April 1651).