Talleyrand

Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord was a French diplomat and statesman, born in Paris in 1754. He came from a noble family and was initially destined for a military career but an accident left him with a limp, leading him to the church. He rose through the ranks of the clergy, becoming Bishop of Autun in 1788. During the French Revolution, Talleyrand sided with the revolutionaries, advocating for the nationalization of church property and supporting the Civil Constitution of the Clergy. He emigrated to Great Britain and then the United States during the Reign of Terror.

Returning to France under the Directory, Talleyrand became Minister of Foreign Affairs. He played a crucial role in Napoleon Bonaparte's rise to power, assisting in the coup d'état of 18 Brumaire. He continued to serve as Foreign Minister under Napoleon, negotiating treaties and representing France abroad. Despite his service to Napoleon, Talleyrand secretly worked to undermine him, believing Napoleon's ambition would ultimately harm France.

Following Napoleon's fall, Talleyrand was instrumental in the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy. He represented France at the Congress of Vienna in 1814-1815, skillfully maneuvering to preserve France's territorial integrity and influence. He served in various diplomatic and governmental roles under Louis XVIII and Louis Philippe. Talleyrand's long and complex career was marked by an extraordinary ability to adapt to changing political landscapes and a reputation for shrewd diplomacy. He died in 1838.