Henry of Navarre, also known as Henry IV of France, was born on December 13, 1553. He was a key figure in the French Wars of Religion, leading the Huguenots, a group of French Protestants. In 1589, he became king of France, marking the beginning of the Bourbon dynasty. Henry is best known for issuing the Edict of Nantes in 1598, which granted religious freedom to the Huguenots and helped to bring peace to France after years of conflict. His reign is often remembered for efforts to unify the country and improve its economy.