Marguerite de Valois, also known as Marguerite de Navarre, was born on May 14, 1553, in Paris, France. She was the daughter of King Henry II of France and Catherine de' Medici. Marguerite played a significant role in the political and cultural life of France during the French Wars of Religion. Marguerite was married to Henry of Navarre, who later became King Henry IV of France. Their union was intended to reconcile the Catholic and Protestant factions in France. She is also known for her literary contributions, particularly her collection of short stories titled Heptaméron.