jul 1, 1627 - Rebellion at La Rochelle

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In January 1625, Soubise, a leading Huguenot nobleman, seized the islands of Rie and Oleron which offered important access into La Rochelle.
Richelieu collected a major fleet and sent a royal army to expel Soubise.
A peace deal was agreed, brokered by the english (Louis’ sister had married the Prince of Wales) but suspicion remained high on both sides.
English good will did not remain for long and the Duke of Buckingham (Protestant) saw an opportunity to assist the Protestants at La Rochelle.

Officially Richelieu’s rebuilding of the French navy was the cause for a breakdown in Anglo-French relations, and english piracy in the channel did little to help.
Over 200 english vessels were seized in the port of Bordeaux in 1627.
In July 1627, over 80 British vessels under the Duke of Buckingham arrived in La Rochelle to lead an open revolt against Louis XIII.
La Rochelle was then besieged by Louis and Richelieu.
In November the English fleet would retreat after receiving great losses during a skirmish near the island of Rie.
The Duke promised to return in the new year but a blockade warded him off.
The Duke was then assassinated by a fanatic, which put an end to any hopes of english involvement in La Rochelle.
Famine and disease ripped through the city and on October 29th 1628 the gates were opened by royal troops.
Amnesty was given to the rebels.
Richelieu was given credit for the costly siege, which greatly benefited his political standing.

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