The Seven Lean Years of the Habsburgs 1628–35

Abstract

One important factor in explaining the almost uninterrupted course of Habsburg success up to 1628 was the absence of effective opposition from France. Though Richelieu’s intervention in the Valtelline had been troublesome, the Treaty of Monzon had left Spain free to use the pass. Since then the persistence of Huguenot rebellion had ensured French neutrality in the activities of the Habsburgs. It was therefore ominous that in October 1628, after a long and arduous siege which had absorbed the personal attention of both Louis XIII and Richelieu, the Huguenots of La Rochelle surrendered to the king.