Q&A · 1:28:42-1:29:00

Where did displaced French Protestant officers serve?

French Protestant officers found employment in several foreign services, including the Royal Navy and Dutch navy.

French Navy Huguenots Naval Careers Religious Policy

Watch at this time Full video guide

Question

Did French Protestant officers join the Royal Navy after the Edict of Nantes was revoked?

Short answer

Yes. Officers also went to the Dutch, Swedish, Russian, and Italian services.

Notes

French Protestant officers entered several foreign services after the revocation. The destinations named include the Royal Navy, Dutch and Swedish navies, Italian city-states, and Russia. The movement spread French naval experience across several potential rivals.