Henry the Great is a historical figure often associated with the unification of France during the late 16th century. He was born in 1553 and became the first monarch of the House of Bourbon. His reign began in 1589 and is noted for the end of the French Wars of Religion, which had caused significant turmoil in the country. Henry is best known for issuing the Edict of Nantes in 1598, which granted religious freedom to the Huguenots, or French Protestants. This act helped to stabilize France and promote peace among its diverse religious groups. His leadership and policies laid the groundwork for a more unified and prosperous France.