The monograph of the remarkable Russian historian I.V. Luchitsky (1845 - 1918) is dedicated to one of the most dramatic episodes in the history of France - the religious wars that tore the country apart under the last Valois from 1562 to 1598. Written on the basis of a variety of literary and historical sources , including those that have not yet been published, this work at one time attracted great attention from historians in Russia and abroad, determining the direction of research on this topic in our country for many years. The book, which until now had only existed in a small circulation, was practically inaccessible edition of the century before last, is distinguished by a vivid artistic form of presentation of events, which makes it attractive not only to specialist historians, but also to a wide range of readers. The publication is equipped with an extensive introductory article, the scientific apparatus of the book has been newly edited in accordance with modern requirements. CONTENTS: P. I. Luchitskaya. Ivan Vasilyevich Luchitsky (1845-1918) as a historian of France 5Preface 25I. From St. Bartholomew's Night to the Peace of Chatenois (May 1576) 29II. The emergence of the Calvinist party and its constituent elements 50Ш. Aristocracy and bourgeoisie in the south of France 172IV. The struggle of parties in Rochelle 242V. Siege of Sancerre 302VI. Political theories of Calvinists and experiments in political organization 340VII. Party of Politicians 419VIII. The bourgeoisie and the aristocratic league in the struggle against Henry III 526 List of abbreviations 596 Sources 597 Literature 602