What decree established religious tolerance for Huguenots in France?

The Edict of Nantes, issued in 1598 by King Henry IV of France, established a significant degree of religious tolerance for Huguenots, who were French Calvinists. This decree aimed to bring an end to the primarily religious conflicts between Catholics and Huguenots in France, particularly during the Wars of Religion that had plagued the country for decades.

The edict granted Huguenots the freedom to practice their religion in certain towns and provided them with civil rights, thereby fostering a more peaceful coexistence between the two religious groups. It recognized the rights of the Huguenots to worship publicly in specific locations and assured them access to public office, as well as the protection of their places of worship.

This decree played a crucial role in shaping religious policy in France during the early 17th century, promoting a measure of stability after years of conflict, which is why it is important in the context of French history and the development of religious tolerance in Europe.