Another of the great enterprises of this minister was the overthrow of the Huguenot party as a political power, and a rival of the throne in France. The siege and capture of Rochelle, which he conducted in person (1628). was followed by the submission of the other Huguenot strongholds. Richelieu, however, secured for the Huguenot body a certain measure of religious toleration; and, on the whole, is confessed to have used his success in this conflict with moderation.
In the external relations of France, the great object of all his measures was the over throw of the preponderance of Austria. With this view he did not hesitate to foment the internal disaffectious of Germany, even allying himself with this design with the German Protestants, and even with the great champion of the Protestant cause, Gustavus of Sweden; and in connection with his anti-Austrian policy, he also took part with the disaffected Spanish provinces in the Netherlands. His designs on Belgium, however, failed of success. With similar views he lent his support to the revolt of Catalonia against Philip IV., and sent an army into Piedmont; nor is there any part of his foreign policy to which he adhered with such pertinacity to the very end of his life.
His internal administration of France has been severely criticised. He was reckless and unscrupulous in the use of means against his enemies, and the expenditure which his foreign wars entailed led to many and oppressive impositions. His own personal expenditure was magnificent even to prodigality, but he is acquitted of all sordid schemes of self-aggrandizement.
Richelieu died at Paris, Dec. 4, 1642. Notwithstanding his many distracting occupa tions, the writings which he left behind fill several volumes. Some of these, aseetleal or controversial, were written before his entrance into political life. Of his later writings. his testament Politique and his .tlfentoirs have attracted much notice. He even indulged occasionally in literature, and wrote two plays of indifferent reputation. His letters are numerous, and many of them full of interest. He was a liberal patron of literature, and to him France owes the establishment of the royal printing presses and the foundation of the French academy.